Which step should the charge nurse take first to address a UAP's concern about collecting specimens from an HIV-positive client?

Which step should the charge nurse take first to address a UAP's concern about collecting specimens from an HIV-positive client?

• A. Provide infection control policy.
• B. Demonstrate the proper use of PPE.
• C. Assess the UAP's knowledge about HIV transmission.
• D. Assist with the collection of the specimen.

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is identifying the safest way to address a staff member’s concern by first checking what they understand about HIV transmission. Beginning with an assessment of the UAP’s knowledge helps uncover any misconceptions or fears that could lead to unnecessary precautions or unsafe practices. By talking through what the UAP believes and knows, the nurse can tailor clear, evidence-based education about how HIV is transmitted and what protections are in place. If the UAP understands that HIV is not transmitted through casual contact and that standard precautions plus appropriate PPE during specimen collection are sufficient, the team can proceed with the necessary safety steps confidently. Once the knowledge gap is identified and clarified, the nurse can share the infection-control policies and demonstrate the correct PPE use as needed, then move forward with specimen collection using proper safeguards. Directly assisting with collection or jumping to policy and PPE without first clarifying understanding may miss the opportunity to correct misconceptions and could reinforce unfounded fears.

The main idea being tested is identifying the safest way to address a staff member’s concern by first checking what they understand about HIV transmission. Beginning with an assessment of the UAP’s knowledge helps uncover any misconceptions or fears that could lead to unnecessary precautions or unsafe practices. By talking through what the UAP believes and knows, the nurse can tailor clear, evidence-based education about how HIV is transmitted and what protections are in place.

If the UAP understands that HIV is not transmitted through casual contact and that standard precautions plus appropriate PPE during specimen collection are sufficient, the team can proceed with the necessary safety steps confidently. Once the knowledge gap is identified and clarified, the nurse can share the infection-control policies and demonstrate the correct PPE use as needed, then move forward with specimen collection using proper safeguards.

Directly assisting with collection or jumping to policy and PPE without first clarifying understanding may miss the opportunity to correct misconceptions and could reinforce unfounded fears.