Question

The nurse is caring for a client that requires a dressing change. When applying the principles of asepsis, what aspect of care should the nurse include?

A.) Blood and body fluids are major reservoirs for microorganisms. B.) All nonsterilized surfaces are considered to be equally contaminated.
C.) It is impossible to completely eliminate microorganisms from an object.
D.) Visibly clean objects are considered to be sterile.

Answer 1

When applying the principles of asepsis, the nurse should consider that microorganisms cannot be completely eliminated from an object, blood and body fluids are major reservoirs for microorganisms, and visibly clean objects may still harbor microorganisms.

Step-by-step explanation:

When applying the principles of asepsis, the nurse should include the following aspects of care:

1. It is impossible to eliminate microorganisms from an object. While aseptic techniques aim to minimize the presence of microorganisms, complete elimination is not always possible. Some microorganisms may remain even after thorough cleaning and disinfection.
2. Blood and body fluids are major reservoirs for microorganisms. These fluids can harbor a high number of microorganisms, increasing the risk of infection. The nurse must take appropriate precautions when handling these fluids.
3. Visibly clean objects are considered to be sterile. While visibly clean objects may appear clean, they may still harbor microorganisms. Sterilization processes, such as autoclaving, are necessary to achieve true sterility.