The nurse is caring for a patient in an intensive care unit who needs a bath. Which priority action will the nurse take to decrease the potential for a health care-associated infection?

A) Use local anesthetic on reddened areas.
B) Use nonallergenic tape on dressings.
C) Use a chlorhexidine wash.
D) Use filtered water.

Health Care-associated Infection

Infections acquired by patients during the course of receiving treatment for other conditions within a healthcare setting, also known as nosocomial infections.

Chlorhexidine Wash

An antiseptic solution used for cleansing the skin to reduce the number of bacteria and prevent infection.

Local Anesthetic

A medication used to cause a temporary loss of sensation in a specific area of the body.