Standard Precautions on the NCLEX
Hand hygiene, gloves, gowns, masks, eye protection, when each applies.
Standard precautions apply to all patients regardless of diagnosis.
Core elements
Hand hygiene before/after every patient contact. Gloves for any contact with body fluids, broken skin, mucous membranes. Gown if soiling possible. Mask + eye protection if splash risk.
Hand hygiene
Alcohol-based rub preferred unless visibly soiled or C. diff suspected (then soap and water). 15-20 seconds.
Frequently asked
Alcohol rub for C. diff?
No, doesn't kill spores. Use soap and water with friction.
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