The practical nurse (PN) observes that an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is preparing to disconnect a client's IV tubing to remove the client's hospital gown during a bed bath. Which action should the PN implement?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Remind the UAP to clean the ends of the tubing with an alcohol swab: While proper aseptic technique is important, disconnecting the IV unnecessarily increases the risk of infection. Prevention by proper gown removal technique is preferred. B. Help the UAP disconnect the IV tubing to ensure sterility: Disconnecting the IV exposes the line to contamination and is unnecessary for a bed bath. This action increases infection risk and is not the recommended approach. C. Obtain a hospital gown with snap sleeves to put on the client: Snap-sleeve gowns can help prevent IV disconnection, but the PN must first ensure the UAP understands proper technique for gown removal without disrupting the IV. D. Demonstrate how to remove the client's gown without disconnecting the IV: Teaching the UAP the correct method prevents accidental disconnection, maintains aseptic technique, and ensures client safety. This addresses the issue directly and promotes safe practice.