NCLEX-PN® ExaminationSafety and Infection ControlMedium
An LPN is observing a newly hired unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) performing perineal care for a female client. Which action by the UAP indicates a need for immediate intervention by the LPN?
- AFailing to change gloves after cleaning the anal area and before continuing to clean the perineum.
- BWearing clean gloves during the procedure.
- CWashing from the pubic area towards the anal area.
- DUsing a fresh part of the washcloth for each stroke.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Failing to change gloves after cleaning the anal area and before continuing to clean the perineum.
To prevent the spread of microorganisms from the anal area to the urethra and vagina, it is crucial to change gloves after cleaning the anal area and use fresh gloves for further perineal cleaning or to use a new washcloth and clean from front to back without reusing the washcloth part.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Wearing clean gloves is essential for standard precautions during perineal care.
- C. Washing from front to back (pubic to anal area) is the correct technique to prevent contamination.
- D. Using a fresh part of the washcloth for each stroke is correct to prevent spreading microorganisms.
Perineal Care Infection Control
Practices during perineal care designed to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the urinary tract or vagina.
- Always wash from front to back (least contaminated to most contaminated).
- Use a fresh part of the washcloth or a new wipe for each stroke.
- Change gloves if they become contaminated, especially after contact with the anal area.
- Proper hand hygiene before and after gloving is crucial.
Memory trick: Perineal Care: Front to Back, Clean Gloves, No Attack!