Question

When taking the blood pressure of a client who has acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), what must the nurse do?

1. Don clean gloves.
2. Use barrier techniques.
3. Put on a mask and gown.
4. Wash hands thoroughly.

Answer 1

When taking blood pressure of an AIDS patient, the nurse should don clean gloves and wash their hands thoroughly. These precautionary measures help prevent transmission through contact with contaminated fluids.

Step-by-step explanation:

When taking blood pressure of a client who has acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), it is imperative for a nurse to take precautionary measures to both protect themselves and prevent the transmission of the virus to other patients. The nurse must do the following:

• Don clean gloves before any contact with the client, including handling of blood pressure equipment.
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after the procedure, as well as after removing gloves.

These steps help reduce the risk of infection as AIDS can be transmitted through contact with contaminated blood and bodily fluids. While masks, gowns, and face protection are also important in certain scenarios, they may not be necessary for a routine blood pressure check if there is not a high risk of blood or bodily fluid exposure. However, adherence to the standard precautions and facility protocols is always required.