Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which example violates infection control principles?

1. A patient cleans skin with soap and water before insulin injection

2. One blood glucose meter is used for all tests in a clinic

3. A demo pen is used with a new needle each time for patient training

4. Parents use new sterile syringes for each child's insulin dose from the same vial

The correct answer is: One blood glucose meter is used for all tests in a clinic

Using one blood glucose meter for all tests in a clinic violates infection control principles because it poses a significant risk for cross-contamination and the potential spread of infections between patients. Each patient may have different pathogens present on their skin or blood, and not properly cleaning or sanitizing the device between uses could transfer these pathogens from one user to another. Infection control guidelines emphasize the importance of using single-use or properly sterilized equipment for each individual to minimize the risk of transmitting infections. The use of separate meters or ensuring proper disinfection between uses would be essential to maintain patient safety. The other scenarios illustrated demonstrate adherence to infection control measures by emphasizing cleanliness and the use of sterile equipment, which are crucial practices in preventing healthcare-associated infections.