PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

In relation to infection control, what is crucial for a patient in the medical-surgical unit?

1. Limit visitors to family only.

2. Maintaining good personal hygiene.

3. Use antibiotics for all infections.

4. Reduce fluid intake to decrease infection risk.

The correct answer is: Maintaining good personal hygiene.

Maintaining good personal hygiene is crucial for a patient in the medical-surgical unit because it plays a significant role in preventing the spread of infections. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, bathing, and oral care, help eliminate pathogens that can lead to infections. This is particularly important in a hospital setting, where patients may have compromised immune systems or open wounds that are more susceptible to infection. Effective personal hygiene minimizes the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms into the body and reduces the overall incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Additionally, it not only protects the individual patient but also contributes to the safety of the healthcare environment, safeguarding other patients, healthcare workers, and visitors from potential infection. Other practices like limiting visitors or the use of antibiotics can have specific roles in infection control, but they are either not universally applicable or can introduce complications if mismanaged. For example, minimizing visitor interactions might not be feasible or necessary in all cases, while indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance rather than preventing infection. Reducing fluid intake could actually be detrimental, as adequate hydration is essential for maintaining bodily functions and supporting the immune response. Therefore, maintaining good personal hygiene stands out as a foundational practice for infection control in a medical-surgical unit