The surgical mask the perioperative nurse is wearing becomes moist. Which action will the perioperative nurse take next?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply a new mask. When a surgical mask becomes moist, it loses its effectiveness in filtering out particles and bacteria. Applying a new mask ensures proper protection for the nurse and the patient. Reapplying a moist mask after it air-dries is not recommended as it may still harbor bacteria. Changing the mask when relieved by the next shift may lead to prolonged exposure to contaminants. Continuing to wear a moist mask, even if the nurse is comfortable, compromises safety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Hepatitis A is indeed transmitted by the fecal-oral route, making option A, TRUE, the correct answer. This transmission occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food or water with the virus present in the feces of an infected individual. Option B, FALSE, is incorrect because Hepatitis A is not transmitted through blood or bodily fluids like other types of hepatitis (e.g., Hepatitis B and C). Therefore, it is important for healthcare providers to understand the specific mode of transmission for each type of hepatitis to implement appropriate infection control measures. In an educational context, understanding the routes of transmission for infectious diseases like Hepatitis A is crucial for nurses to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings. By knowing that Hepatitis A is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, nurses can educate patients and implement proper hand hygiene, sanitation, and food safety practices to reduce the risk of transmission. This knowledge is essential for providing safe and effective care to patients while maintaining a healthy environment for both healthcare workers and patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Infection is accurately defined as a disease resulting from pathogens in or on the body. This definition is correct because infections are caused by the invasion and proliferation of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites within a host organism. These pathogens disrupt normal bodily functions, leading to signs and symptoms of illness. Understanding this definition is crucial in infection control nursing as it guides healthcare professionals in identifying, preventing, and treating infections effectively. Option A is incorrect because while living in an unclean environment can contribute to the risk of infection, it is not the sole defining factor. Option B is also incorrect as lack of knowledge about food preparation may lead to foodborne illnesses but does not encompass the broader concept of infection. Option D is incorrect as it describes illness resulting from traumatic injury, which is a separate category from infections caused by pathogens. In an educational context, nurses must have a clear understanding of what constitutes an infection to provide optimal patient care. By recognizing the source and nature of infections, healthcare professionals can implement appropriate measures to prevent their spread, protect vulnerable individuals, and promote overall public health. This knowledge is fundamental in infection control practices and is essential for maintaining a safe healthcare environment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) nosocomial. A nosocomial infection refers to an infection that is acquired in a hospital or healthcare facility. In the case of Mrs. Treem, acquiring a MRSA infection after hip replacement surgery indicates that she contracted the infection during her hospital stay. MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics, making it a significant concern in healthcare settings. Option B) viral is incorrect because MRSA is a bacterial infection, not a viral infection. Option C) iatrogenic is incorrect as iatrogenic refers to illnesses or conditions that arise as a result of medical intervention or treatment, not necessarily due to an infection acquired in a healthcare facility. Option D) antimicrobial is incorrect as it pertains to substances that inhibit the growth of microorganisms, rather than describing the type of infection acquired. Educationally, understanding the term nosocomial infection is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in infection control and prevention. It highlights the importance of stringent infection control measures in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of resistant bacteria like MRSA. This knowledge helps in implementing appropriate protocols to protect both patients and healthcare workers from acquiring and transmitting infections within the healthcare environment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In infection control nursing, understanding the concepts of portals of exit is crucial to prevent the spread of infections. The correct answer is A) Portal of exit. The mouth, wound, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary tract are all examples of portals of exit, which are pathways through which infectious agents leave the host. By identifying and managing these portals, healthcare professionals can implement strategies to interrupt the transmission of pathogens. Option B) The chain of infection is incorrect because it refers to the sequence of events that allows pathogens to infect a new host, including reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host. While portals of exit are part of the chain of infection, they are not the entire chain. Option C) Bacteria and Option D) Microorganism are incorrect because they are broad terms that encompass various types of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. While these microorganisms can cause infections, the question specifically asks for examples of portals of exit, making A) Portal of exit the most appropriate answer. In an educational context, teaching about portals of exit helps nursing students and healthcare professionals understand the routes through which infections can spread. By recognizing and addressing these portals, they can implement effective infection control measures to protect both patients and themselves. This knowledge is essential for maintaining a safe healthcare environment and preventing healthcare-associated infections.