A nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse set up a sterile field. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the procedure?

1. Remove protective gown before removing gloves.

When caring for a client with Clostridium Difficile, it is important to follow strict contact precautions to prevent the spread of the bacteria. The nurse should remove the protective gown before removing gloves to avoid contaminating the gown with any bacteria that may be on the gloves. This helps to minimize the risk of spreading the bacteria to other clients or healthcare workers.

1. Shake bed linens before placing them in a linen bag.

Shaking bed linens can cause any bacteria that may be on them to become airborne, increasing the risk of spreading the bacteria to other surfaces. Instead, bed linens should be rolled up and placed directly into a linen bag without shaking them.

1. Use an electronic thermometer to take the client's temperature.

An electronic thermometer is preferred when taking the temperature of a client with Clostridium Difficile because it can be easily disinfected between uses, reducing the risk of spreading the bacteria.

1. Remove protective gloves when leaving the client's room.

Protective gloves should be removed before leaving the client's room to avoid contaminating other surfaces or spreading the bacteria to other clients or healthcare workers.

Answer: B. A client who is unconscious.

A. A client who has a spinal cord injury.
While a spinal cord injury is serious and requires close monitoring, this condition does not immediately indicate that the client is unstable or at risk for life-threatening complications compared to an unconscious client. However, if there were signs of respiratory compromise or neurogenic shock, this client could be prioritized higher.

B. A client who is unconscious.
An unconscious client should be seen first because their condition may indicate a critical issue such as impaired airway, breathing, or circulation (ABC). Immediate assessment is needed to ensure the airway is clear, breathing is adequate, and circulation is stable, as these are life-threatening concerns.

C. A client who has peripheral vascular disease.
Clients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) typically have chronic issues related to circulation in the limbs, which can cause pain and discomfort but are not usually immediately life-threatening. While important, this client is not the top priority compared to an unconscious client.

D. A client who has a new ankle sprain.
A new ankle sprain is painful and requires treatment, but it is not life-threatening. The nurse should address this client after ensuring the more urgent needs of other clients are met, such as the unconscious client who may require immediate interventions to preserve life.