NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed – Step-by-Step Guide

The first step before starting to write the NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed, it is essential to understand the requirements of the assignment. The first step is to read the assignment prompt carefully to identify the topic, the length and format requirements. You should go through the rubric provided so that you can understand what is needed to score the maximum points for each part of the assignment. It is also important to identify the audience of the paper and its purpose so that it can help you determine the tone and style to use throughout. You can then create a timeline to help you complete each stage of the paper, such as conducting research, writing the paper, and revising it to avoid last-minute stress before the deadline. After identifying the formatting style to be applied to the paper, such as APA, you should review its use, such as writing citations and referencing the resources used. You should also review how to format the title page and the headings in the paper.

How to Research and Prepare for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

The next step in preparing for your paper is to conduct research and identify the best sources to use to support your arguments. Identify the list of keywords from your topic using different combinations. The first step is to visit the university library and search through its database using the important keywords related to your topic. You can also find books, peer-reviewed articles, and credible sources for your topic from PubMed, JSTOR, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar. Ensure that you select the references that have been published in the last words and go through each to check for credibility. 

Ensure that you obtain the references in the required format, for example, in APA, so that you can save time when creating the final reference list. You can also group the references according to their themes that align with the outline of the paper. Go through each reference for its content and summarize the key concepts, arguments and findings for each source. You can write down your reflections on how each reference connects to the topic you are researching about. After the above steps, you can develop a strong thesis that is clear, concise and arguable. Next you should create a detailed outline of the paper so that it can help you to create headings and subheadings to be used in the paper. Ensure that you plan what point will go into each paragraph.

How to Write the Introduction for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

The introduction of the paper is the most crucial part as it helps to provide the context of your work, and will determine if the reader will be interested to read through to the end. You should start with a hook, which will help capture the reader’s attention. You should contextualize the topic by offering the reader a concise overview of the topic you are writing about so that they may understand its importance. You should state what you aim to achieve with the paper. The last part of the introduction should be your thesis statement, which provides the main argument of the paper.

How to Write the Body for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

The body of the paper helps you to present your arguments and evidence to support your claims. You can use headings and subheadings developed in the paper’s outline to guide you on how to organize the body. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence to help the reader know what point you will be discussing in that paragraph. Support your claims using the evidence conducted from the research, ensure that you cite each source properly using in-text citations. You should analyze the evidence presented and explain its significance and how it connects to the thesis statement. You should maintain a logical flow between each paragraph by using transition words and a flow of ideas.

How to Write the In-text Citations for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

In-text citations help the reader to give credit to the authors of the references they have used in their works. All ideas that have been borrowed from references, any statistics and direct quotes must be referenced properly. The name and date of publication of the paper should be included when writing an in-text citation. For example, in APA, after stating the information, you can put an in-text citation after the end of the sentence, such as (Smith, 2021). If you are quoting directly from a source, include the page number in the citation, for example (Smith, 2021, p. 15). Remember to also include a corresponding reference list at the end of your paper that provides full details of each source cited in your text. An example paragraph highlighting the use of in-text citations is as below:

The integration of technology in nursing practice has significantly transformed patient care and improved health outcomes. According to Smith (2021), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) has streamlined communication among healthcare providers, allowing for more coordinated and efficient care delivery. Furthermore, Johnson and Brown (2020) highlight that telehealth services have expanded access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas, thereby reducing barriers to treatment.

How to Write the Conclusion for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

When writing the conclusion of the paper, start by restarting your thesis, which helps remind the reader what your paper is about. Summarize the key points of the paper, by restating them. Discuss the implications of your findings and your arguments. End with a call to action that leaves a lasting impact on the reader or recommendations.

How to Format the Reference List for NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed

The reference helps provide the reader with the complete details of the sources you cited in the paper. The reference list should start with the title “References” on a new page. It should be aligned center and bolded. The references should be organized in an ascending order alphabetically and each should have a hanging indent. If a source has no author, it should be alphabetized by the title of the work, ignoring any initial articles such as “A,” “An,” or “The.” If you have multiple works by the same author, list them in chronological order, starting with the earliest publication. 

Each reference entry should include specific elements depending on the type of source. For books, include the author’s last name, first initial, publication year in parentheses, the title of the book in italics, the edition (if applicable), and the publisher’s name. For journal articles, include the author’s last name, first initial, publication year in parentheses, the title of the article (not italicized), the title of the journal in italics, the volume number in italics, the issue number in parentheses (if applicable), and the page range of the article. For online sources, include the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) or the URL at the end of the reference. An example reference list is as follows:

References

Johnson, L. M., & Brown, R. T. (2020). The role of telehealth in improving patient outcomes. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 35(2), 123-130. https://doi.org/10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000456

Smith, J. A. (2021). The impact of technology on nursing practice. Health Press.

An Example NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Describe the infection control measures that need to be observed Follows:

NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Scenario:

You are a Home Health RN who is making an initial visit to the home of an elderly couple to assess and develop a plan of care. Mr. Juarez, an 88-year-old man, broke his right tibia due to a fall. He was recently discharged from a skilled rehabilitation center where he had developed a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) from his indwelling urinary catheter. The infection has resolved, and he has now been discharged home with an indwelling urinary catheter. He remains in a cast and has graduated to limited use of crutches but is still unable to perform routine activities of daily living (ADLs). You will be coming to the home once a week.  

NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 1 Example Approach based on AI

In this scenario, as a Home Health RN, it’s essential to follow specific infection control measures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent any potential transmission of infection, especially due to the presence of an indwelling urinary catheter. Additionally, considering Mr. Juarez’s advanced age and health condition, special attention must be given to the aging process and its impact on independent living and overall well-being. Below is a breakdown of the necessary infection control measures, PPE, and considerations regarding the aging process:

Infection Control Measures:

  1. Hand Hygiene:
    • Before and after patient contact, including touching the catheter and the surrounding area, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
    • Before and after wearing gloves, perform hand hygiene to prevent cross-contamination.
  2. Catheter Care:
    • Maintain sterile technique when performing any catheter care or dressing changes. This is important to avoid introducing pathogens into the urinary tract.
    • Assess catheter site for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and ensure that the catheter is positioned correctly to prevent kinks or blockages.
    • Ensure proper catheter hygiene: Clean the area around the catheter with mild soap and water daily or as per facility guidelines.
  3. Monitoring for Infection:
    • While Mr. Juarez’s CAUTI has resolved, it’s important to continue monitoring for any signs of a recurring urinary tract infection (fever, change in urine color, foul odor, discomfort), as elderly patients are more vulnerable to infections.
    • Encourage regular hydration and proper fluid intake unless contraindicated, as it can help flush the urinary system.
  4. Environmental Cleanliness:
    • Ensure that the home environment is clean and free of any sources of infection. Use disinfectant wipes or sprays on surfaces you frequently touch, including the bathroom and areas around the catheter.
    • Ensure that the area around Mr. Juarez’s bed or resting place is free of clutter to reduce the risk of falls and infection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  1. Gloves:
    • Wear disposable gloves when touching or caring for the urinary catheter, performing dressing changes, or assisting with any personal care. Dispose of gloves properly after each task and perform hand hygiene afterward.
  2. Mask:
    • If there is any risk of exposure to bodily fluids or respiratory droplets (for example, if Mr. Juarez has a cough or cold), wear a surgical mask to protect against the transmission of infection.
  3. Gown (if needed):
    • If there is a significant risk of soiling clothing (e.g., assisting with incontinence care), wear a disposable gown to protect your clothing from contamination.
  4. Eye Protection:
    • If you anticipate any splashes of bodily fluids or are performing tasks that increase risk of exposure (e.g., changing a catheter or providing incontinence care), wear goggles or a face shield for eye protection.

Aging Process and Vulnerabilities Related to Independent Living:

  1. Physical Vulnerabilities:
    • Decreased mobility: Mr. Juarez’s limited use of crutches and his cast will make it difficult for him to perform basic ADLs such as bathing, dressing, or toileting. He may require assistance with transfers, meal preparation, and medication management.
    • Slower healing process: At age 88, Mr. Juarez may take longer to heal from his injury and may have increased risk for complications, such as pressure ulcers or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to immobility.
    • Frailty: Aging often brings frailty, which could make Mr. Juarez more vulnerable to falls, infections, and other health complications.
  2. Cognitive Changes:
    • Cognitive decline: Some elderly individuals experience cognitive changes such as confusion or memory problems. Mr. Juarez may struggle with understanding his care plan, remembering to stay hydrated, or taking his medications on time.
    • Isolation: As mobility decreases, the risk of social isolation increases, which may contribute to depression, anxiety, or a sense of loneliness.
  3. Vulnerability to Abuse:
    • Elder abuse risk: Seniors, especially those with physical or cognitive impairments, can be at a higher risk for abuse or neglect. Home visits provide an opportunity to assess for signs of emotional, physical, or financial abuse.
    • Dependence on caregivers: Mr. Juarez may rely on a spouse, family member, or professional caregiver for support, which can increase the risk of neglect or emotional abuse if the caregiver is overwhelmed or inexperienced.
  4. Social Connections:
    • Loss of social connections: With limited mobility, Mr. Juarez may have fewer opportunities to interact with others, contributing to feelings of isolation or depression.
    • Decreased community involvement: If Mr. Juarez cannot participate in his usual social or religious activities due to his injury, his social support system may be significantly weakened.
  5. Health Complications:
    • Chronic conditions: Aging individuals often have multiple chronic conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes) that complicate healing or contribute to overall frailty. It’s important to monitor Mr. Juarez for any exacerbations of such conditions during home visits.
    • Polypharmacy: Many elderly patients are on multiple medications, which increases the risk of medication errors and interactions. Regular review of his medication regimen is necessary to ensure safety and adherence.

Plan of Care Considerations:

  1. Promote Mobility and Independence:
    • Encourage Mr. Juarez to use his crutches appropriately and safely while assisting him with tasks like moving from the bed to a chair or using the bathroom.
    • Introduce adaptive devices (e.g., grab bars, walker) to help with mobility and prevent falls.
  2. Provide Emotional Support:
    • Offer emotional support to both Mr. and Mrs. Juarez to address any concerns about his health and daily living. Refer them to community resources (e.g., senior centers, support groups) to help combat loneliness and enhance social connections.
  3. Ensure Safety in the Home:
    • Perform a home safety assessment to prevent falls. Ensure that the home is well-lit, free of obstacles, and that emergency contacts are easily accessible.
    • Advise the use of a call bell or emergency alert system in case of a fall or urgent need.
  4. Monitor Health Conditions:
    • Regularly assess Mr. Juarez for signs of infection, pain, or complications related to his fracture and urinary catheter.
    • Review medications and encourage medication adherence.
  5. Collaborate with Other Healthcare Providers:
    • Work with physical therapists to assist with mobility exercises and rehabilitation of Mr. Juarez’s leg.
    • Coordinate with social workers if needed to address any caregiver or financial concerns.

In conclusion, careful attention to infection control measures, appropriate PPE usage, and an awareness of the specific vulnerabilities of elderly patients will ensure Mr. Juarez’s safety and well-being during your visits. Additionally, recognizing and addressing his physical, emotional, and social needs will help promote his independence and quality of life.

Now that you have reviewed our sample approach, are you ready to take it to the next level? Let us know if you need further assistance or guidance. Meanwhile, once this assessment is done, your next task is NRS 420 Topic 5 DQ 2 End-of-life Care. For any feedback or inquiry, reach us via the chat options provided at the bottom of this page or via support@nursinglance.com. Feel welcome. Adieu!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When approaching a 500-word essay, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this compact form of writing. These frequently asked questions will guide you through the process of crafting a concise and impactful essay.

How many pages is a 500-word essay typically?

A 500-word essay usually spans about one page if single-spaced or two pages when double-spaced, with standard margins and a 12-point font size.

Can you provide examples of a well-structured 500-word essay?

Certainly, to see the structure and flow of a well-written essay, you might want to take a look at a student’s writing guide that provides insights and examples.

Are there specific formatting guidelines for a 500-word essay?

Formatting guidelines typically involve using a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12, with double-spacing and one-inch margins on all sides. Check any specific requirements your instructor might have provided.

What are some effective strategies for writing a personal essay of 500 words?

For a personal essay, focus on a singular event or characteristic, ensuring your ideas are clear and you reflect on the significance of the subject matter. Use concise language and powerful imagery to maximize impact.

What topics are suitable for a concise 500-word essay?

Choose topics you can thoroughly address within the word limit, such as a personal anecdote, a critical analysis of a poem, or a focused argument on a singular point or issue.

How much time should you allocate to write a 500-word essay effectively?

Depending on your familiarity with the topic and writing proficiency, allocate anywhere from one to several hours for planning, drafting, and revising to ensure a well-presented essay.