Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What is an example of a 'standard precaution' action?

1. Wearing masks only during outbreaks

2. Hand hygiene before and after patient care

3. Cleaning only the treatment area after procedures

4. Only using gloves for invasive procedures

The correct answer is: Hand hygiene before and after patient care

The action of performing hand hygiene before and after patient care is an example of a 'standard precaution' because it is a fundamental practice aimed at preventing the transmission of infections in healthcare settings. Standard precautions are guidelines that are implemented to protect both healthcare workers and patients from the spread of infections. They encompass a range of practices, but hand hygiene is one of the most critical components across various settings. By conducting hand hygiene regularly, healthcare providers significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of pathogens that can lead to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This practice aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and is essential for maintaining a sterile environment during patient care. In contrast, other choices focus on more selective or reactive measures. Wearing masks only during outbreaks is not consistent with standard precautions, which should advocate for consistent use when there is potential for exposure, regardless of an outbreak. Cleaning only the treatment area after procedures does not encompass the comprehensive cleaning protocol advised by standard precautions—these precautions recommend a full disinfection after any patient interaction. Similarly, only using gloves for invasive procedures suggests a limited approach that neglects the importance of glove use in non-invasive interactions where exposure to blood or bodily fluids may occur.