Infection Control: Patient Teaching

Question 1

What is the objective for patient teaching on infection control?

Answer 1

• Patient will perform self-care using proper infection-control techniques

Question 2

How should patients clean equipment at home?

Answer 2

• Clean with soap and water
• Disinfect with appropriate disinfectant

Question 3

When should patients practice proper hand hygiene?

Answer 3

• Before and after treatments
• When contacting infected body fluids

Question 4

What should patients know about tube feeding formulas?

Answer 4

• Follow instructions on how long formula can be unrefrigerated
• Contaminated feedings can cause infections
• Care for feeding bags/tubing per protocol

Question 5

How should contaminated items be disposed of?

Answer 5

• Dressings in impervious plastic bags
• Needles in puncture/leak-proof containers
• Contact local authorities before disposal

Question 6

How should soiled linens be laundered?

Answer 6

• Separate from other laundry
• Wash in hot water with bleach
• Use high dryer heat

Question 7

How should nurses evaluate patient understanding of infection control?

Answer 7

• Ask patient/family to describe techniques to reduce transmission
• Ask patient to demonstrate select techniques
• Ask patient to explain their infection risks based on condition

Question 8

What topics should be covered when teaching infection control?

Answer 8

• Patient’s susceptibility to infection
• Chain of infection and means of transmission
• Hygiene practices to minimize growth/spread (emphasize hand hygiene)
• Preventive care like diet, immunizations, exercise
• Proper food handling and storage
• Awareness of at-risk family members

Question 9

What should nurses consider for lengthy sterile procedures?

Answer 9

• Assess patient needs and anticipate disruptions
• Provide analgesics 30 mins prior if patient is in pain
• Allow patient to void before procedure
• Help patient get in a comfortable position
• Offer mask if patient has a respiratory infection