CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide is assisting a resident with a severe nosebleed. After applying pressure, what is the next most important infection control action the nurse aide should take regarding their hands?
- AWash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- BApply a new pair of clean gloves.
- CWipe hands with a disposable cloth.
- DUse an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
After direct contact with blood, thorough handwashing with soap and water is essential to remove visible blood and reduce the risk of pathogen transmission. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective when hands are visibly soiled with blood or body fluids.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. New gloves should be applied AFTER handwashing, not as a substitute for cleaning contaminated hands.
- C. Wiping hands with a cloth is insufficient for proper infection control after contact with blood; it does not effectively remove pathogens.
- D. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not effective against visible blood or body fluids and does not physically remove them.
Post-Blood Exposure Hand Hygiene
Immediate and thorough handwashing with soap and water after contact with blood or body fluids, especially when hands are visibly soiled.
- Soap and water is mandatory for visible soil.
- Alcohol-based sanitizer is ineffective on visible blood.
- Prevents transmission of bloodborne pathogens.
Memory trick: Blood on your hands? Soap and water demands!