Question

List three sites to be avoided because of the possibility of contamination.

A. Elbow, forearm, and palm
B. Wrist, upper arm, and back of the hand
C. Fingers, palm, and back of the hand
D. Palm, forehead, and upper arm

Answer 1

The answer is B. Wrist, upper arm, and back of the hand. These areas are prone to contamination and should be avoided during procedures like injections. Proper handwashing techniques minimize the risk of introducing pathogens to these sites.

Step-by-step explanation:

Wrist, upper arm, and back of the hand. During handwashing, it's essential to avoid areas of potential contamination to prevent introducing pathogens into wounds or mucous membranes. The wrist, upper arm, and back of the hand are sites that should be avoided for things like injections or drawing blood because they are more likely to come into contact with contaminants, which can lead to infection.

The handwashing process should begin from the fingertips, covering all parts of the hands and forearms, and ensuring water runs off at the fingertips, not up the arms, to carry away microorganisms effectively. This extended scrubbing is especially recommended for surgical settings, indicated by Figure 13.27 (b), to reduce the risk of infection. Using a nail brush and thoroughly drying hands with a clean towel or air blower further enhance cleanliness.