Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) A Practice Exam

When collecting evidence, what safety equipment should be worn by nurses?

1. Only gloves

2. Only masks

3. Masks and gloves

4. Protective eyewear

The correct answer is: Masks and gloves

In the context of collecting evidence, the use of masks and gloves is critical for several reasons. Masks protect nurses from inhaling potentially infectious aerosols or droplets that may be present in the environment, particularly in situations where exposure to bodily fluids is likely. Gloves serve as a barrier to prevent direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces, thereby minimizing the risk of transmission of pathogens. Together, masks and gloves create a more comprehensive safety approach, safeguarding the nurse while ensuring that the evidence collection process maintains its integrity by preventing contamination. This combination is essential not only for the healthcare professional's protection but also for ensuring the validity of the evidence collected, which may be crucial in legal contexts. While protective eyewear is also important in certain situations, it is not universally required in every evidence collection scenario, which is why it may not be included as necessary alongside masks and gloves. The choice to include only masks or only gloves would not offer the same level of protection against potential exposure to respiratory and contact pathogens. Thus, wearing both masks and gloves represents the most effective standard practice in ensuring safety during evidence collection.