Which action demonstrates proper hand hygiene for a nurse before and after patient care?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (ideally 40-60 per CDC guidelines) before and after patient care removes pathogens effectively, breaking the chain of infection. Wiping on a towel doesn't kill germs and may spread them. Using sanitizer only after care skips pre-care protection, risking contamination to the patient soap is superior for visible dirt or C. diff. Shaking hands for rapport, while friendly, isn't hygiene-focused and could transmit microbes. This rigorous washing is a fundamental nursing practice, safeguarding both patient and nurse from healthcare-associated infections.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Providing oral care to an unconscious patient maintains oral health and prevents complications like infections (e.g., pneumonia) or sores by removing bacteria and keeping tissues moist. Preventing talking isn't relevant they're unconscious. Forcing liquids isn't the aim; hydration comes via other routes like IVs. Hospital-wide infection control benefits indirectly, but the focus is patient-specific health. Nurses use swabs or brushes regularly to combat dryness and microbial growth, a critical task in dependent care to safeguard respiratory and systemic wellness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Keeping the environment clutter-free promotes safety for a visually impaired patient by minimizing trip hazards and easing navigation, critical for preventing falls. Frequent furniture rearrangement disorients, increasing risk. Dark floors obscure edges, making obstacles harder to spot contrast helps. Loud music distracts, not aids, safety. Nurses ensure clear pathways and consistent layouts, often adding tactile guides, to support safe mobility and independence, tailoring the space to the patient's sensory needs effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Using simple, clear language and allowing comprehension time promotes effective communication with a cognitively limited patient by matching their processing ability, reducing confusion, and encouraging understanding. Complex terms overwhelm, hindering accuracy. Rapid speech outpaces their grasp, causing frustration. Minimal communication isolates, missing care opportunities engagement matters. Nurses repeat key points, use visuals if needed, and check responses, patiently bridging cognitive gaps to ensure instructions or comfort are conveyed effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A cooling fan improves sleep quality and comfort for a bedridden patient by circulating air, reducing heat and sweat, common discomforts in prolonged stillness. Warm air circulation counters this goal cooling is key. Noise might stimulate but disrupts sleep, not enhances it. Decreasing ventilation traps heat and odors, worsening conditions. Nurses position fans safely, avoiding drafts on wounds, to create a soothing environment, aiding rest and recovery, a simple comfort boost in confined settings.