The nurse is caring for a client who is paralyzed on the left side due to a stroke. The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is assisting the nurse with a bed bath. Which action by the UAP requires intervention by the nurse?
The UAP places dirty linen on the floor during the bed change.
The UAP first washes his hands and dons gloves before beginning the bath.
The UAP drapes the client for privacy and warmth during the course of the bath.
The UAP asks the client if she needs to use the bedpan before beginning the bath.
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: Placing dirty linen on the floor can transfer microorganisms and increase the risk of spreading infection. Dirty or clean linen should never be placed on the floor. Hand washing and using gloves help lower the spread of infection and are part of universal or standard precautions. Draping the client shows respect for the client’s modesty and helps prevent the client from becoming too cold. Asking about toileting needs before the bath allows for removal of soiled linen if the client has an accident with the bedpan before clean linen is placed on the bed.
