COPE Health Scholars Practice Test

Before changing an occupied bed, what should you always do?

1. Change gloves

2. Invite a co-worker to assist

3. Dust the bedside table

4. Check the clock for time management

The correct answer is: Change gloves

Changing gloves before attending to an occupied bed is crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of infections. When caring for patients, healthcare workers handle various materials and surfaces that may be contaminated. By changing gloves, you ensure that any pathogens or bacteria that might have come into contact with your gloves during prior tasks do not get transferred to the patient or their bedding. This practice is essential for protecting both the healthcare provider and the patient, particularly in a clinical environment where the risk of cross-contamination is significant. The emphasis on glove changes aligns with infection control protocols and promotes patient safety, which are fundamental principles in healthcare settings. Proper hand hygiene and appropriate glove use are cornerstones in preventing healthcare-associated infections. Hence, ensuring that gloves are changed before any patient interaction involving bed changes is not just a critical step but a standard practice in patient care.