Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

When must gloves be used by nursing assistants?

1. During bed making

2. Anytime there is a risk of contact with bodily fluids

3. Only when administering medication

4. While handling clean linens

The correct answer is: Anytime there is a risk of contact with bodily fluids

Using gloves is essential for nursing assistants during situations where there is a risk of contact with bodily fluids. This guideline is crucial for infection control and maintaining both the patient's and the healthcare worker's safety. Gloves form a barrier that helps prevent the transmission of pathogens, which can occur through blood, saliva, urine, or other bodily fluids. In many healthcare scenarios, there is a significant focus on minimizing contact with potential contaminants, ensuring that proper hygiene protocols are followed. While there may be specific scenarios like administering medication or handling contaminated materials that may also require gloves, the overarching principle is that gloves should always be used when there's a risk of exposure to bodily fluids, regardless of the specific task at hand. This proactive approach is a key component of standard precautions in healthcare settings, emphasizing the importance of using personal protective equipment whenever necessary.