A nurse is providing education to a group of individuals in a community center about preventing the spread of gastroenteritis. What should the nurse emphasize?

A) Incorrect. Avoiding hand hygiene is not an effective way to prevent gastroenteritis; in fact, it increases the risk of infection.

B) Incorrect. Sharing personal items can increase the risk of spreading gastroenteritis, as the virus or bacteria can be easily transmitted through shared items.

C) Incorrect. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used in the absence of soap and water, they are not as effective as proper handwashing.

D) Correct. Proper hand hygiene, especially after using the restroom, is crucial in preventing the spread of gastroenteritis, as it reduces the risk of contaminating hands with potentially infectious agents.

- A: Drinking plenty of fluids is essential for staying hydrated, especially when experiencing gastroenteritis, which can lead to significant fluid loss due to vomiting and diarrhea.
- B: Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system and exacerbate symptoms of gastroenteritis. They should be avoided until full recovery to prevent further irritation.
- C: Dairy products can be difficult to digest during episodes of gastroenteritis and avoiding them can help minimize symptoms such as diarrhea and stomach upset.
- D: Bland, easily digestible foods are recommended during recovery from gastroenteritis as they are gentle on the stomach and can help in gradually restoring normal digestion.