A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a group of assistive personnel (AP) about infection control measures on the unit.
The nurse should remind the APs that which of the following is the most effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens during client care?

Choice A rationale:

This statement is incorrect because the pulmonary vein carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium, not from the left ventricle.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is incorrect because the pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs, not from the left ventricle.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is correct. When the left ventricle contracts, it pushes blood through the aortic semilunar valve into the aorta, the largest artery in the body.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect because the inferior vena cava carries deoxygenated blood from the lower half of the body to the right atrium, not from the left ventricle.

Choice A rationale:

Changing soiled linens daily is important, but it is not the most effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens.

Choice B rationale:

Hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens. It should be performed before and after every client interaction, before and after any procedure, and after any contact with potentially infectious material.

Choice C rationale:

Discarding used syringes in appropriate containers is important for safety, but it does not directly prevent the spread of pathogens.

Choice D rationale:

Properly disposing of contaminated equipment is important, but hand hygiene is more effective at preventing the spread of pathogens.