The nurse is teaching a class on infection control. Which nursing measure is most appropriate in breaking a link in the chain of infection?
A) Place contaminated linens in a paper bag.
B) Use personal protective equipment (PPE).
C) Cover one's cough by placing the mouth in the hand.
D) Wear sterile gloves for client care.
Answer: B
PPE, according to OSHA standards, has to be used whenever the situation dictates and is a nursing measure to break a link in the chain of infection. Placing linens in a paper bag would allow germs to come out through the bag, and the linen would act as a fomite, thus allowing the chain to continue. Covering one's mouth when coughing prevents airborne droplets from escaping into the air for others to contract in the chain of infection. However, the cough should be covered in the elbow, not in the hand. Non-sterile gloves have to be worn when providing certain aspects of client care. The gloves should be changed between client, and hands are to be washed.
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