Basic Skills

Question 1

The most important skill a midwife can have to prevent the spread of disease and germs is

Answer 1

Effective hand washing

Question 2

List times for Hand Washing in a Clinical Setting:

Answer 2

Before and after physical contact with a client, such as during prenatal exams.
Before performing sterile procedures, like inserting an IV or conducting a vaginal exam.
After contact with bodily fluids, mucous membranes, or contaminated surfaces.
After removing gloves, gloves can have micro-tears or transfer pathogens.

Question 3

What are Principles of Universal (Standard) Precautions in Midwifery?

Answer 3

Universal precautions are a set of infection prevention practices used to minimize the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens and other infectious materials in all healthcare settings. These principles apply to all patients, regardless of their infection status

Question 4

Name the Principles of Universal (Standard) Precautions in Midwifery:

Answer 4

Hand hygiene: Before and after patient contact or any clinical procedure.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): Such as gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection during procedures with exposure to bodily fluids.

Safe handling and disposal of sharps: Immediate disposal in puncture-resistant sharps containers.

Cleaning and disinfection: Ensuring that all equipment and surfaces are disinfected between patients.

Question 5

Four Bodily Fluids Requiring Universal Precautions in Midwifery:

Answer 5

1. Amniotic Fluid: Present during labor and rupture of membranes; poses a risk of transmission of infections like HIV or hepatitis.
2. Blood: Encountered during delivery, episiotomy, or any invasive procedure; significant risk for bloodborne pathogens.
3. Vaginal Secretions: Contact occurs during prenatal exams or delivery; potential vector for sexually transmitted infections.
4. Breast Milk: Can transmit infections like HIV when exposed to broken skin or mucous membranes.

Question 6

The OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires: (4)

Answer 6

1. Use of Sharps Containers: Employers must provide puncture-resistant, leakproof, and labeled containers for the immediate disposal of used sharps (e.g., needles, scalpels).
2. Avoid Recapping: Used sharps should not be recapped, bent, or broken manually to reduce injury risk.
3. Accessibility: Sharps containers must be located as close as possible to areas where sharps are used.
4. Training: Employers must train workers on proper handling and disposal of sharps and ensure compliance with safety protocols.