The nurse is caring for a patient in the hospital. The nurse observes the nursing assistant turning off the handle faucet with his hands. What professional practice supports the need for follow-up with the nursing assistant?

Question

a. The nurse is responsible for providing a safe environment for the patient.
b. This is a key step in the procedure for washing hands.
c. Allowing the water to run is a waste of resources and money.
d. Different scopes of practice allow modification of procedures.

Answer 1

A
The nurse is responsible for providing a safe environment for the patient. The effectiveness of infection control practices depends on conscientiousness and consistency in using effective aseptic technique. It is human nature to forget key procedural steps or to take shortcuts. However, failure to comply with basic procedures places the patient at risk for infection that can impair recovery or lead to death. After washing hands, turn off a handle faucet with a dry paper towel and avoid touching the handles with your hands to assist in preventing the transfer of microorganisms. Wet towels and hands allow the transfer of pathogens from faucet to hands. The principles and procedures for washing hands are universal and apply to all members of health care teams. Being resourceful and aware of the cost of health care is important, but taking shortcuts that may endanger an individual's health is not a prudent practice.