A nurse is caring for patients in the oncology unit. Which of the following is the most important nursing action when caring for a neutropenic patient?
A. Change the disposable mask immediately after use.
B. Change gloves immediately after use.
C. Minimize patient contact.
D. Minimize conversation with the patient.
Correct Answer: B. Change gloves immediately after use.
The neutropenic patient is at risk of infection. Changing gloves immediately after use protects patients from contamination with organisms picked up on hospital surfaces. This contamination can have serious consequences for an immunocompromised patient.
Option A: Changing the respiratory mask is desirable, but not nearly as urgent as changing gloves.
Options C and D: Minimizing contact and conversation are not necessary and may cause nursing staff to miss changes in the patient’s symptoms or condition.