Question

A nurse teaches a patient about self-monitoring of blood glucose levels. Which statement would the nurse include in this client's teaching to prevent bloodborne infections?

A."Wash your hands after completing each test."
B."Do not share your monitoring equipment."
C."Blot excess blood from the strip with a cotton ball."
D."Use gloves when monitoring your blood glucose."

Answer 1

To prevent bloodborne infections, a nurse's advice would be to not share monitoring equipment for blood glucose levels. This is critical for the safety of diabetic patients, who use personal glucose meters and test strips for managing their condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent bloodborne infections during self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, a nurse would include the following statement in the client's teaching: "Do not share your monitoring equipment." This practice is essential as it minimizes the risk of transmitting infections, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), through blood. Individuals with diabetes must be cautious when handling equipment that comes in contact with blood to prevent the spread of bloodborne pathogens.

The use of personal glucose meters and test strips is a common and vital practice for managing diabetes. It is part of the self-care routine for individuals with this endocrine disorder, such as Type 2 diabetes, where body cells become resistant to insulin. To ensure accurate readings and safety, it is important to use the meter and strips properly, which includes not sharing them with others.