A nurse is caring for a client who requires contact precautions.
Which action should the nurse take with this client?

Choice A rationale:

The anterior surface of the drape is not the correct choice because it includes the central sterile area, which should never be touched by the nurse. Touching the central sterile area contaminates the field.

Choice B rationale:

The outer 1-inch border of the drape is the correct choice for the nurse to touch. This border is considered non-sterile and can be handled without contaminating the sterile field. It acts as a barrier, preventing contaminants from reaching the central sterile area.

Choice C rationale:

The top inner corners of the drape are part of the central sterile area and should not be touched by the nurse. Touching this area would contaminate the sterile field.

Choice D rationale:

The posterior aspect of the drape is not the correct choice because it is part of the central sterile area. Touching this area would contaminate the sterile field. When preparing a sterile field, it is essential for the nurse to follow strict aseptic techniques to maintain the sterility of the field. This includes touching only the designated non-sterile areas, such as the outer 1-inch border of the sterile drape, to avoid contamination.

Choice A rationale:

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) do not necessarily occur due to compromised immunity. HAIs refer to infections that patients acquire while receiving treatment for medical or surgical conditions, and they can happen to individuals with varying levels of immunity.

Choice B rationale:

While infections during therapeutic procedures are a concern, not all healthcare-associated infections occur during such procedures. HAIs can happen in various healthcare settings and not limited to therapeutic procedures.

Choice C rationale:

Inhaling pathogens in a healthcare setting might lead to infections, but not all healthcare-associated infections happen due to inhalation. HAIs can occur through different modes of transmission.

Choice D rationale:

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) occur when a patient acquires an infection while receiving care in a healthcare setting, including hospitals. This can involve various sources, such as contaminated medical equipment, surgical procedures, or interactions with healthcare personnel.