CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyHard
A nurse aide is caring for a resident who is receiving oxygen therapy via nasal cannula. The resident's family brings in an electric blanket for comfort. What safety instruction should the nurse aide provide to the family?
- AElectric blankets should not be used with oxygen due to fire risk.
- BEnsure the electric blanket is set to a low temperature.
- CElectric blankets are safe to use with oxygen if unplugged when not in use.
- DPlace a regular blanket between the resident and the electric blanket.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Electric blankets should not be used with oxygen due to fire risk.
Oxygen is highly flammable and supports combustion. Any heat-producing electrical device, such as an electric blanket, can generate sparks or heat that could ignite the oxygen, leading to a fire. Therefore, electric blankets are contraindicated for residents receiving oxygen therapy.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Even low temperatures or faulty wiring can pose a fire risk with oxygen.
- C. The risk is present even if unplugged, as the device itself is not designed for an oxygen-rich environment.
- D. A regular blanket does not mitigate the fire risk from an electric blanket in an oxygen environment.
Oxygen Safety: Electrical Devices
Heat-producing electrical devices, like electric blankets, are a fire hazard and should not be used in conjunction with oxygen therapy.
- Oxygen is highly flammable and supports combustion.
- Avoid open flames, smoking, and spark-producing devices.
- Ensure electrical equipment is in good repair and grounded.
Memory trick: Oxygen + Oh-no! = Fire Hazard.