Which action by a UAP caring for a group of clients warrants immediate nurse intervention?

Which action by a UAP caring for a group of clients warrants immediate nurse intervention?

• A. The UAP places a urine specimen in a biohazard bag.
• B. The UAP washes her hands with alcohol foam hand cleanser.
• C. The UAP puts soiled linen in a plastic bag in the hallway.
• D. The UAP uses a disposable stethoscope for a client in the isolation room.

Answer: (C)

Handling contaminated linen correctly is essential to prevent spread of infection. Placing soiled linen in a plastic bag and leaving it in the hallway creates a contamination risk, as the bag could leak or be breached, exposing staff and other patients to pathogens. The proper practice is to seal soiled linen in a leak-proof bag or designated linen container and transport it promptly in a closed linen hamper or cart to the soiled linen area, following standard precautions and facility policy. The other actions align with infection control: sending a urine specimen in a biohazard bag is appropriate, hand hygiene with an alcohol-based sanitizer is correct, and using a disposable stethoscope for a client in isolation helps prevent cross-contamination. The hallway handling of soiled linen requires immediate correction.

Handling contaminated linen correctly is essential to prevent spread of infection. Placing soiled linen in a plastic bag and leaving it in the hallway creates a contamination risk, as the bag could leak or be breached, exposing staff and other patients to pathogens. The proper practice is to seal soiled linen in a leak-proof bag or designated linen container and transport it promptly in a closed linen hamper or cart to the soiled linen area, following standard precautions and facility policy. The other actions align with infection control: sending a urine specimen in a biohazard bag is appropriate, hand hygiene with an alcohol-based sanitizer is correct, and using a disposable stethoscope for a client in isolation helps prevent cross-contamination. The hallway handling of soiled linen requires immediate correction.