Answer choices
- A combing hair.
- B ambulating client.
- C assisting with oral care.
- D transporting clean linen.
Correct answer: C. assisting with oral care.
Clinical Rationale
The aide SHOULD wear gloves when assisting with oral care.
Wearing gloves during oral care helps to maintain hygiene and prevent the transmission of pathogens, as this procedure involves contact with bodily fluids and the mouth, which can harbor bacteria and viruses.
A) combing hair.
Combing hair does not typically involve exposure to bodily fluids or contaminants that would require gloves. This activity is generally safe and does not pose a risk of infection or contamination, making gloves unnecessary.
B) ambulating client.
While assisting a client to ambulate may require physical support, it does not involve direct contact with potentially infectious materials. Therefore, gloves are not needed for this task, as the primary concern is mobility rather than hygiene.
C) assisting with oral care.
When assisting with oral care, gloves are essential to protect both the aide and the client from potential infections. This task often involves contact with saliva and other bodily fluids, which can carry pathogens, making gloves a critical component of infection control.
D) transporting clean linen.
Transporting clean linen does not require gloves, as the linen is clean and poses no risk of contamination. Gloves are not needed because this task does not involve contact with bodily fluids or infectious materials.
Conclusion
In the context of healthcare, the use of gloves is crucial in procedures where exposure to bodily fluids is likely, such as assisting with oral care. While other tasks like combing hair, ambulating a client, and transporting clean linen do not present the same risks, ensuring proper hygiene during oral care is vital for preventing infections and protecting the health of both clients and aides.