What are nursing actions to reduce exposure pathogens for a client who is immunocompromised?

Nursing actions to reduce exposure to pathogens for a client who is immunocompromised include:

1. Standard Precautions:

- Implement strict adherence to standard precautions, including hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene (e.g., wearing masks), and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when in contact with the client or potentially infectious materials.

2. Private Room:

- Place the client in a private room or cohort with other immunocompromised clients to minimize exposure to other potentially infectious individuals.

3. Restricted Access:

- Limit visitors and access to the client's room to essential individuals only, and have them follow the same precautions as healthcare personnel.

4. Hygiene and Disinfection:

- Ensure thorough cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, medical devices, and equipment in the client's environment regularly.

5. Safe Handling of Bodily Fluids and Medical Waste:

- Handle bodily fluids (e.g., blood, urine, stool) and medical waste with care, using appropriate PPE, and dispose of them following proper protocols.

6. Education:

- Educate the client and their caregivers about the importance of infection prevention measures, including hand hygiene, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and proper nutrition to support their immune system.

7. Vaccination:

- Administer recommended vaccines to the client as appropriate, including influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, to reduce their risk of acquiring vaccine-preventable infections.

8. Monitoring and Early Intervention:

- Monitor the client for signs and symptoms of infection and implement early intervention measures to prevent or promptly manage infections if they occur.

9. Use of Sterile Supplies:

- Use sterile supplies, instruments, and dressings when performing invasive procedures or administering medications, and minimize the number of times a medication vial or infusion is accessed.

10. Blood and Body Substance Precautions:

- If blood or body substance exposure occurs, immediately initiate and complete post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) measures according to institutional protocols.