Question 38. Board Rule 217.11, Standards of Nursing Practice, requires the nurse to “Implement measures to prevent exposure to infectious pathogens and communicable conditions.” This is a standard that
A. applies to nurses working with patients with infectious diseases.
B. is the basis for use of personal protective equipment.
C. applies to all licensed nurses in Texas.
D. can be waived in home health settings.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C. applies to all licensed nurses in Texas.
Explanation:
Board Rule 217.11, part of the Texas Administrative Code established by the Texas Board of Nursing, outlines the Standards of Nursing Practice that every licensed nurse in Texas must follow. This rule is not limited to specific practice settings, specialties, or patient populations—it applies universally to all licensed nurses, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), regardless of where they practice.
The specific clause in question mandates that nurses “implement measures to prevent exposure to infectious pathogens and communicable conditions.” This responsibility is rooted in the broader ethical and professional obligation of nurses to protect both their patients and themselves from preventable harm. It encompasses routine practices such as proper hand hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), following infection control protocols, immunization compliance, and reporting exposure incidents.
While options A and B touch on aspects of the standard—such as its relevance to infectious diseases and its relationship to PPE—those answers are too narrow. Option D is incorrect because this standard cannot be waived in any setting, including home health. Nurses working in patients’ homes are still expected to adhere to infection control protocols to safeguard vulnerable populations and prevent the spread of disease.
Therefore, Option C is correct because this requirement is a universal standard that governs the practice of all licensed nurses in Texas. It reflects the essential role of nurses in ensuring public safety and maintaining the integrity of the healthcare system. Compliance with these standards is not optional and failure to meet them can result in disciplinary action by the Texas Board of Nursing.
