ATI RN
Nurses and Infection Control Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is positioning a sterile drape to extend the working area when performing a urinary catheterization. Which of the following is an appropriate technique for this procedure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because using sterile gloves to handle the entire drape surface ensures the sterility of the working area during the urinary catheterization procedure. By using sterile gloves, the nurse maintains aseptic technique and prevents contamination of the sterile field. Choice B is incorrect because folding the lower edges of the drape over the sterile-gloved hands may lead to contamination of the sterile field as the gloves are not in direct contact with the drape surface. Choice C is incorrect because touching only the outer two inches of the drape when not wearing sterile gloves does not ensure complete sterility and may still lead to contamination of the working area. Choice D is incorrect because allowing clothing to touch the drape can introduce contaminants to the sterile field, compromising the aseptic technique required for the procedure.
Question 2 of 5
The patient experienced a surgical procedure, and Betadine was utilized as the surgical prep. Two days postoperatively, the nurse’s assessment indicates that the incision is red and has a small amount of purulent drainage. The patient reports tenderness at the incision site. The patient’s temperature is 100.5° F, and the WBC is 10,500/mm3. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Utilize SBAR to notify the primary health care provider. This is the first action the nurse should take because the patient is exhibiting signs of a surgical site infection (redness, purulent drainage, tenderness, elevated temperature, and increased WBC count), which requires immediate attention from the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Notifying the provider promptly allows for timely intervention to prevent complications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A: Planning to change the surgical dressing during the shift is not the priority as the patient's symptoms indicate a potential infection that needs immediate attention. C: Reevaluating the temperature and WBC count in 4 hours delays necessary intervention for a suspected infection. D: Checking the solution used for skin preparation in surgery is not urgent compared to notifying the provider about the concerning signs of infection.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a group of medical-surgical patients. Which patient is most at risk for developing an infection?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a patient recovering from surgery, especially a total hip surgery, is at higher risk for developing an infection due to the surgical incision and disruption of the skin barrier. Post-operative patients are more susceptible to infections as their immune system may be compromised. In contrast, choice A has no direct relation to infection risk. Choice B, dehydration, may lead to electrolyte imbalances but does not necessarily increase infection risk. Choice D, heart problems, does not inherently increase infection risk unless the patient has specific conditions or interventions that compromise their immune system.
Question 4 of 5
A patient presents with pneumonia. Which priority intervention should be included in the plan of care for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Observe the patient for decreased activity tolerance. This is the priority intervention as pneumonia can lead to decreased oxygenation and energy levels. Monitoring activity tolerance helps assess respiratory status and response to treatment. Choice B is incorrect as pain management is not the priority in pneumonia. Choice C is incorrect as ice chips may not address the patient's respiratory needs. Choice D is incorrect as maintaining room temperature is not a priority in managing pneumonia.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient in labor and delivery. When near completing an assessment of the patient’s cervix, the electronic infusion device being used on the intravenous (IV) infusion alarms. Which sequence of actions is most appropriate for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: Complete the assessment - Ensures patient safety by assessing the cervix. Step 2: Remove gloves - Prevents cross-contamination. Step 3: Wash hands - Maintains proper hygiene before IV assessment. Step 4: Assess the intravenous infusion - Addresses the device alarm promptly. This sequence prioritizes patient assessment and safety while adhering to infection control practices. Summary: A: Doesn't address IV alarm or hand hygiene properly. B: Fails to prioritize patient assessment before addressing the IV alarm. D: Doesn't emphasize proper hand hygiene before IV assessment.