The infection-prevention nurse audits care for a client with suspected C difficile infection. Which actions require follow-up? Highlight the practices that can increase transmission risk.
Highlight in Table
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Unclean shared equipment, missing gown and gloves, and transfer without precaution communication increase transmission risk. Isolation, dedicated equipment, cleaning, and a clear handoff support safer care.
Quick answer Follow up when a shared blood-pressure cuff is moved without disinfection, a staff member enters without gown and gloves, and the receiving unit is not told about the client's C. difficile precautions.
Why this is correct CDC guidance calls for contact precautions, dedicated equipment, appropriate environmental cleaning, and communication during transfer for suspected or confirmed C. difficile infection.[2] Omitting these barriers can carry spores to people, equipment, and another care area.
Easy analogy or mental picture Imagine invisible spores as glitter. Gloves and gowns keep it off clothing and hands, dedicated equipment keeps it in one room, cleaning removes it from surfaces, and transfer communication warns the next team where the glitter may be.
NCLEX decision rule For a spore-forming enteric infection, evaluate the whole transmission chain: placement, personal protective equipment, equipment, environment, hand hygiene, and handoff. One missing link can spread contamination.
Why the other choices are wrong Prompt isolation while testing is pending, a dedicated toilet and stethoscope, soap-and-water bathing, appropriate disinfectant use, and continuing precautions after diarrhea resolves match the displayed prevention plan.
References
[1]
NCSBN: 2026 NCLEX-RN Test PlanNational Council of State Boards of Nursing
[2]
CDC: Clinical Guidance for C. difficile PreventionCenters for Disease Control and Prevention