Final answer:
The statement that only the staff member needs to wear a mask while accessing a catheter is false. To minimize infection risks, both the staff member and the patient should wear masks to maintain a sterile environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When accessing a catheter, it is a common misconception that only the staff member needs to wear a mask. This statement is false. Both the staff member and the patient should wear a mask to minimize the risk of infection. When dealing with a catheter, it is crucial to maintain a sterile environment, as catheters can easily become a route for pathogens to enter the body, potentially leading to catheter-related infections.
The use of masks by both parties helps to ensure that the risk of infection is minimized. For example, during a catheter insertion or maintenance procedure, speaking can release droplets which could contaminate the catheter or the insertion site. Wearing a mask reduces this risk and is part of the standard precautions in infection control.