The nurse is aware that the best way to prevent post-operative wound infection in the surgical client is to: A. Administer a prescribed antibiotic B. Wash her hands for 2 minutes before care C. Wear a mask when providing care D. Ask the client to cover her mouth when she coughs

To find the best way to prevent post-operative wound infection, analyze each given option to see which one is most effective. A. Administer a prescribed antibiotic: Antibiotics can help prevent infection, but they are not always necessary and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Moreover, antibiotics cannot replace proper hygiene practices. B. Wash her hands for 2 minutes before care: Handwashing is crucial for preventing infections as it reduces the transmission of harmful bacteria from healthcare workers' hands to the patient's wound. C. Wear a mask when providing care: Wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of respiratory infections, but it is not the primary way to avoid wound infections. D. Ask the client to cover her mouth when she coughs: This action can reduce the spread of respiratory infections, but it is not directly related to preventing wound infection in surgical patients.

After analyzing the options, the best way to prevent post-operative wound infection in surgical patients is to: B. Wash her hands for 2 minutes before care Handwashing is the most crucial method of preventing infection and is essential for healthcare workers to practice before attending to any patient, including surgical patients.