The nurse is preparing to assist a client to a lateral position to pos

The nurse is preparing to assist a client to a lateral position to position a bedpan. What action should the nurse take first?

1. Perform hand hygiene.
2. Move the client to the side of the bed.
3. Place the client’s arm over the chest.
4. Raise the opposite side rail.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Even though the intervention being performed is placing the client on a bedpan, the nurse should first perform hand hygiene. This prevents cross-transmission of infection from one client to another. Performing this hygiene in front of the client also increases the client’s perception of the quality of care being provided and the nurse’s concern about infection control.
Rationale 2: This action is done later in the procedure.
Rationale 3: This action is done later in the procedure.
Rationale 4: This action is done later in the procedure.