COPE Health Scholars Practice Test

What is one of the Patient Protection Precautions for immunocompromised patients?

1. Use of double gloves

2. No flowers or fruit

3. Isolation from all staff

4. Mandatory weekly testing

The correct answer is: No flowers or fruit

One of the Patient Protection Precautions for immunocompromised patients is the restriction of flowers or fruit in their environment. This practice is in place because immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or patients with certain chronic diseases, have weakened immune systems that make them more vulnerable to infections. Flowers and fruit can harbor bacteria, mold, and other pathogens that could potentially lead to serious infections. By prohibiting these items, healthcare providers aim to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful microorganisms, thus ensuring a safer environment for patients whose immune defenses are compromised. Utilizing double gloves, isolation from all staff, or implementing mandatory weekly testing can also be part of broader infection control measures, but the specific restriction of flowers and fruit directly targets airborne and contact transmission risks in a straightforward and effective manner for this vulnerable patient population.