NCLEX-RNSafety and Infection Prevention and ControlEasy
A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for the nurse to don before entering the client's room?
- ASurgical mask and clean gloves.
- BFace shield and shoe covers.
- CN95 respirator and sterile gloves.
- DGown and clean gloves.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Gown and clean gloves.
C. diff is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, primarily through contact with contaminated surfaces or individuals. Contact precautions require the use of a gown and gloves to prevent transmission.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A surgical mask is for droplet precautions, not primarily for C. diff; clean gloves are necessary but not sufficient alone.
- B. A face shield is for splash protection, and shoe covers are not routinely required for C. diff contact precautions.
- C. N95 respirators are for airborne precautions, and sterile gloves are typically for sterile procedures, neither are primary for C. diff.
C. diff Precautions
Specific infection control measures to prevent the spread of Clostridioides difficile, a highly contagious bacterium.
- Requires Contact Precautions.
- Hand hygiene with soap and water is crucial.
- Environmental cleaning with sporicidal agents is necessary.
Memory trick: C. diff spreads by Contact, so Cover Up!