Question

The nurse is aware that Standard Precautions represent the first tier of Centers for Disease Control guidelines for isolation precautions. Which is the nurse's primary responsibilityWhen following Standard Precautions?

a) Use disposable equipment whenever possible.
b) Wear a mask at all timesWhen in contact with patients.
c) Consider all body substances potentially infectious.
d) Use dedicated equipment for each patient.

Answer 1

The nurse's primary responsibility when following Standard Precautions is to consider all body substances potentially infectious.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's primary responsibility when following Standard Precautions is to consider all body substances potentially infectious. Standard Precautions are a set of guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases in healthcare settings. By considering all body substances potentially infectious, the nurse ensures that proper precautions are taken to prevent the spread of infection.

These measures should be applied to all patients, regardless of their diagnosed infection status, thereby providing a safe barrier against the unseen risk of potential infection. It is also crucial for medical professionals to practice strict hand hygiene, proper disinfection, and to use the appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, gowns, masks, eye protection, or face shields, when there is a potential exposure to blood, bodily fluids, secretions, or excretions.