Dietetic Technician Practice Test

A food service aide complains about finding bloody tissues on a patient’s meal tray. What should you advise?

1. Tell the employee to remove the tissue and throw it away

2. The employee should refuse to remove the tray from the room

3. Tell the employee not to worry and remove the tray

4. Speak to the nurse to have the tissue disposed of and wear gloves to remove the tray

The correct answer is: Speak to the nurse to have the tissue disposed of and wear gloves to remove the tray

The appropriate advice in this situation involves patient safety and adhering to proper protocols for handling potentially hazardous materials. Advising the food service aide to speak to the nurse ensures that the bloody tissue is handled according to health and safety guidelines. The presence of bloody tissues may indicate a medical condition that requires careful attention; thus, it is essential to inform a qualified medical professional immediately. Wearing gloves to remove the tray is also critical, as it protects the aide from potential exposure to pathogens or contaminants that could be present in the blood. This practice upholds safety standards and helps to prevent the spread of infection, aligning with proper hygiene and sanitation practices in healthcare settings. This approach also fosters a team-oriented environment where collaboration between food service staff and nursing staff enhances overall patient care and safety.