The student nurse asks why gloves are needed when handling a newborn because the newborn “hasn’t been exposed to anything”. What response by the nurse is best?
A.
We are protecting the infant from our bacteria.
B.
Amniotic fluid and maternal blood pose risks to us.
C.
It is hospital policy.
D.
It is part of standard precautions.
The best response by the nurse is:
A. We are protecting the infant from our bacteria.
Gloves are used to prevent the transfer of potentially harmful bacteria and microorganisms from the nurse to the newborn. Even though the newborn may not have been exposed to anything yet, it is crucial to maintain strict hygiene to protect the infant from any potential infection.