The intravenous (IV) line infiltrates and needs restarting on a client diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Which precautions would the nurse take when restarting the IV?

• A. Mask
• B. Gown
• C. Gloves
• D. Face shield

Answer: (C)

Standard precautions require protecting yourself from blood and bodily fluids during procedures like restarting an IV. For this task, the primary protective measure is wearing gloves. Gloves create a barrier between your hands and any blood that might be on the IV site, equipment, or fluids, which is the main route of potential exposure when handling an IV in a client with AIDS. Remember to practice hand hygiene before putting gloves on and after removing them.

Masks, gowns, and face shields protect against splashes or exposure to other routes (such as respiratory droplets or contact with large amounts of blood), but they aren’t routinely needed for a standard IV restart unless you anticipate splashes or other exposure.