Question

The nurse performs hand hygiene using soap and water before and after providing client care. Which nursing action is performed correctly according to the procedure?

A.) The nurse washes at least 1 in (2.5 cm) above the area of contamination if present.
B.) The nurse rinses thoroughly with water flowing away from the fingertips.
C.) The nurse uses soap and cold water to wash hands.
D.) The nurse uses about 2 tsp (10 ml) of liquid soap to wash hands.

Answer 1

The nursing action performed correctly according to the procedure is B.) The nurse rinses thoroughly with water flowing away from the fingertips. Thus the correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proper hand hygiene is crucial in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infections. Option B correctly outlines a key step in handwashing procedure. Rinsing thoroughly with water flowing away from the fingertips helps ensure the removal of soap and contaminants from the hands. This step aids in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene during patient care.

Options A, C, and D do not align with recommended handwashing procedures. Washing at least 1 inch above the area of contamination (Option A) is not a specific guideline, and it is essential to wash the entire hand thoroughly. The use of soap and cold water (Option C) is not ideal, as warm water is recommended for better efficacy. Using about 2 tsp (10 ml) of liquid soap (Option D) is not a standardized measurement, and the emphasis should be on using an adequate amount of soap to ensure proper cleaning.

In healthcare, adherence to established hand hygiene protocols is critical for infection control. Nurses should follow evidence-based guidelines to perform hand hygiene correctly and contribute to maintaining a safe and sterile environment for patient care.