A nurse is reinforcing teaching about home infection prevention with a client who is HIV positive. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A.
I will disinfect contaminated hard surfaces with a mixture of one part peroxide to 10 parts water.
B.
I will place used sharp items in an empty cereal box for disposal.
C.
I will put soiled dressings in a tied plastic bag before placing them in the trash.
D.
I will use animal-skin condoms when having sex.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
C. I will put soiled dressings in a tied plastic bag before placing them in the trash.
Explanation:
Clients with HIV need to take specific measures to prevent the spread of infection, both for themselves and others, as their immune systems are compromised. Effective home infection prevention strategies are crucial to maintaining health and reducing the risk of transmitting infections.
Answer C: “I will put soiled dressings in a tied plastic bag before placing them in the trash.”
This statement indicates an understanding of proper disposal of potentially infectious materials, such as soiled dressings. Placing these items in a sealed plastic bag helps contain any blood, bodily fluids, or other contaminants that could pose a risk to others. This practice reduces the chance of accidental contact with contaminated materials, a key element of home infection control. It is a standard infection prevention practice in home settings to ensure that medical waste is properly handled and disposed of.
Incorrect Responses:
A. “I will disinfect contaminated hard surfaces with a mixture of one part peroxide to 10 parts water.” Hydrogen peroxide is not typically used for disinfecting in home settings. The CDC recommends using a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) to disinfect contaminated hard surfaces. This mixture is effective in killing HIV and other pathogens on surfaces. The statement in answer A reflects incorrect knowledge of appropriate disinfectants.
B. “I will place used sharp items in an empty cereal box for disposal.” Used sharp items, such as needles, should be disposed of in a hard, puncture-proof container, like a sharps disposal container, not an empty cereal box. Cereal boxes can easily be punctured, increasing the risk of needle-stick injuries to others. Proper sharps disposal is crucial for preventing accidental exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
D. “I will use animal-skin condoms when having sex.” This statement is incorrect because animal-skin condoms do not provide protection against HIV transmission. Latex or polyurethane condoms are recommended for HIV-positive individuals engaging in sexual activity, as these materials are effective barriers against the virus.
In summary, option C demonstrates the client’s understanding of a key aspect of infection control, while the other answers reflect incorrect or unsafe practices.