Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perform hand hygiene before and after patient contact. Effective hand hygiene is a fundamental infection control measure that helps prevent the spread of pathogens. Wearing gloves when administering medications (choice B) is important for protecting both the patient and the nurse but is not a direct demonstration of infection control. Disposing of used equipment in designated containers (choice C) is more related to proper waste management than infection control. Wearing a mask when interacting with the patient (choice D) is essential in certain situations, but hand hygiene is a more universal and critical practice for infection control.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to use a dedicated blood pressure cuff that stays in the room and is used for that patient only. Patients on contact precautions require dedicated equipment to prevent the spread of disease. Using one blood pressure cuff exclusively for the patient on contact precautions helps minimize the risk of transmitting infections to other patients. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while wearing protective gear and isolating the patient in a room with negative airflow are important infection control measures, using dedicated equipment for the patient on contact precautions is specifically recommended to prevent the spread of disease in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy in the narcotics log, the appropriate next step is to report the discrepancy to the nurse manager. This is important to ensure that the issue is properly investigated and addressed. Choice A is incorrect because simply correcting the log and notifying the pharmacy may not address the root cause of the discrepancy. Choice C is incorrect as re-administering the narcotic without clarification could lead to potential harm or legal issues. Choice D is incorrect as disposing of the narcotic without following proper protocols and documentation could result in further complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of infections and ensuring patient safety. When a nurse observes another healthcare worker skipping hand hygiene practices, it is essential to report this behavior to the supervisor. Reporting ensures that appropriate action is taken to address the issue and maintain a safe environment for patients. Ignoring the situation (Choice A) may compromise patient safety. Discussing the issue directly with the nurse (Choice C) may not always be effective in ensuring compliance. Doing nothing and continuing with patient care (Choice D) disregards the importance of infection control protocols.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When managing a patient with contact precautions, it is essential to dedicate all patient care equipment to that specific patient. This practice helps minimize the risk of spreading infections to other patients. Choice A, wearing protective gear for all patient interactions, is a general precaution but not specific to managing a patient with contact precautions. Choice B, ensuring visitors wear protective equipment, is important for infection control but not directly related to managing the patient with contact precautions. Choice D, disinfecting shared equipment before use, is a good practice for infection control in general but does not address the specific needs of a patient under contact precautions.