Infection control & patient safety worksheet with answers

What is the purpose of the “time-out” just before a surgical procedure?

1. ATo confirm the patient, procedure and site with the whole team
2. BTo have the patient sign the consent form
3. CTo give the surgical team a short rest before they start operating
4. DTo count the instruments and swabs after the operation

Which foods are commonly linked to cross-reactions in people with a latex allergy?

1. AApples, carrots, lettuce and peas
2. BBanana, avocado, kiwi and chestnut
3. CRice, potatoes, oats and bread
4. DMilk, eggs, wheat and peanuts

How should a dose of half a milligram be written?

1. A1/2mg
2. B0.50 mg
3. C.5 mg
4. D0.5 mg

Which household item is a strangulation risk for young children?

1. AA large wooden building block
2. BSoft cotton socks
3. CLooped cords on window blinds
4. DA plastic picture book

A nurse who never had BCG vaccine has a positive tuberculin skin test for the first time. The chest x-ray is clear and there are no symptoms. What does this most likely mean?

1. AActive TB, which needs airborne isolation
2. BImmunity to TB from a past exposure
3. CA failed test that must be repeated next year
4. DLatent TB infection, which is not contagious

In a hospital fire, which means of moving patients is usually avoided?

1. AMoving horizontally to another area on the same floor behind fire doors
2. BStairs
3. CWheeling beds through fire doors
4. DElevators (lifts)

A patient was harmed by a medication error and asks the nurse what happened. Which approach is best?

1. ATell the patient to make a formal complaint to find out
2. BBe honest that an error occurred and involve the provider and team in disclosure per policy
3. CTell the patient nothing happened to avoid worry
4. DBlame the pharmacy for the error so that the nurse and the ward are not at fault

A unit keeps vials of concentrated potassium chloride in the ward stock cupboard. Why do many safety guidelines advise against this?

1. AUndiluted concentrate given by mistake can stop the heart
2. BPotassium chloride vials expire within a day of opening
3. CPotassium chloride is too expensive to keep as general ward stock
4. DPotassium chloride must always be given by mouth