A nurse is completing a peer evaluation. Which of the following actions will ensure the peer evaluation is impartial?

A) Administer PRN haloperidol IM to the client:

Administering haloperidol is not the first-line intervention for managing behavioral disturbances in clients with dementia, especially in response to acute agitation. While antipsychotic medications like haloperidol may be prescribed in some cases, they should be used judiciously due to the risk of adverse effects, particularly in elderly clients. Additionally, administering medication should not be the first action taken without attempting non-pharmacological interventions.

B) Engage the client in a repetitive activity as a distraction:

This is the most appropriate initial intervention when dealing with an agitated client with dementia. Engaging the client in a repetitive, calming activity can help redirect their focus and reduce agitation. Simple, familiar tasks or activities tailored to the client's preferences can be effective in providing comfort and reducing distress.

C) Apply wrist restraints to the client:

Using physical restraints should be avoided unless absolutely necessary for the safety of the client or others. Restraints can cause physical and psychological harm, increase agitation, and compromise the client's dignity and autonomy. Therefore, restraint use should be a last resort and implemented only after other interventions have been attempted and deemed ineffective or when there is an imminent risk of harm.

D) Place the client in a seclusion room:

Seclusion should not be used as an initial intervention for managing agitation in clients with dementia. Seclusion can exacerbate distress and increase feelings of isolation and fear, which may escalate agitation further. It should only be considered as a last resort for managing severe agitation or aggression when all other interventions have failed and there is a risk of harm to the client or others.

A) Use diluted bleach to clean soiled equipment: This is the correct answer. Clostridium difficile is a bacterium that can form spores, which are resistant to many common disinfectants. Diluted bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is effective in killing C. difficile spores, making it an essential part of infection control protocols for clients with C. difficile infection. It is recommended to use a dilution of 1:10 bleach to water for environmental cleaning.

B) Provide a room with negative-pressure airflow: While negative-pressure rooms may be used for clients with certain airborne infections to prevent the spread of pathogens, it is not typically necessary for clients with C. difficile infection. Standard precautions, including meticulous hand hygiene and appropriate environmental cleaning, are the primary measures for preventing transmission.

C) Wear an N95 respirator when caring for the client: N95 respirators are recommended for healthcare workers caring for clients with airborne infections such as tuberculosis or certain respiratory viruses. C. difficile is transmitted primarily through contact with contaminated surfaces or feces, so standard precautions, including gloves and gowns, are sufficient for preventing transmission.

D) Disinfect hands using an alcohol-based waterless antiseptic: While alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective against many types of bacteria and viruses, they may not be sufficient for eliminating C. difficile spores. Handwashing with soap and water is preferred for removing C. difficile spores from hands.