CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyEasy
A resident begins coughing forcefully into the open air during a group activity. According to respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette, what should the nurse aide teach the resident to do?
- AHold their breath until the urge to cough passes
- BCough into a closed fist to contain droplets
- CTurn away from others but continue coughing into the open air
- DCough or sneeze into the upper sleeve or a tissue, then discard the tissue and perform hand hygiene
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Cough or sneeze into the upper sleeve or a tissue, then discard the tissue and perform hand hygiene
Respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette requires covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the upper sleeve (not the hand) to reduce droplet spread, followed by proper disposal and hand hygiene.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Holding one's breath is not a valid infection control practice.
- B. A closed fist does not adequately contain respiratory droplets and contaminates the hand.
- C. Turning away alone does not stop droplet spread through the air.
Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette
A set of infection control measures used to reduce the spread of respiratory pathogens through droplets when coughing or sneezing.
- Cover mouth/nose with tissue or sleeve, not bare hands
- Dispose of tissue immediately
- Perform hand hygiene after coughing or sneezing
Memory trick: Sleeve, not hands, stops the germ bands.