Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

When should nurse aides perform handwashing?

1. Only after caring for patients

2. Only during outbreaks of illness

3. Before and after caring for each client

4. Only when visibly dirty

The correct answer is: Before and after caring for each client

Handwashing is a critical practice in healthcare to prevent the spread of infections and maintain cleanliness. The recommendation for nurse aides to perform handwashing before and after caring for each client is based on the principles of infection control. This practice significantly reduces the risk of transmitting pathogens between patients and from healthcare workers to patients. Performing hand hygiene before care helps to ensure that any bacteria or viruses present on the hands do not enter the patient's environment or body. Following care, washing hands removes any contaminants acquired during the process, thereby protecting the next individual that the aide might assist. This diligent approach contributes to the overall safety and well-being of both patients and staff within the healthcare setting. Other options do not encompass the full scope of when handwashing should occur. Relying solely on washing hands after caring for patients or only when visibly dirty does not adequately prevent infection transmission, nor should it be limited to specific illness outbreaks, as pathogens can be present at any time. Therefore, the comprehensive practice of washing hands before and after each client interaction is essential for effective infection control.