Which practice best reduces infection risk for a neutropenic patient?

• A. Strict hand hygiene for all staff entering the room
• B. Shortening room cleaning times
• C. Limiting labeling on equipment
• D. Encouraging visitors to bring fresh fruit

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is infection prevention through strict hand hygiene, which is crucial for protecting a neutropenic patient whose immune system is severely weakened. When neutropenia lowers the body’s defenses, even tiny amounts of microbes can cause serious infections. The most effective way to prevent introducing microbes from anyone entering the room is rigorous hand hygiene by all staff and visitors. Hands should be cleaned with an alcohol-based hand rub when hands are not visibly dirty; wash with soap and water if hands are visibly soiled or if contact with bodily fluids occurs. This simple, consistent practice greatly reduces the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and spores to the patient.

Other options would compromise safety or introduce new risks: shortening room cleaning times reduces environmental cleanliness, which can leave surfaces contaminated; limiting labeling on equipment increases the chance of wrong use or cross-contamination; and encouraging visitors to bring fresh fruit can introduce additional pathogens.