An HCA is assisting a client with dementia in their home. The client habitually touches their mouth with their hands after coughing. Which Routine Practice is most important for the HCA to consistently reinforce with the client to prevent infection transmission?

Question: An HCA is assisting a client with dementia in their home. The client habitually touches their mouth with their hands after coughing. Which Routine Practice is most important for the HCA to consistently reinforce with the client to prevent infection transmission?

Answer options:

• Encouraging passive range of motion exercises.
• Reminding them to drink more water. ✅ Assisting them with frequent hand washing or sanitizing.
• Ensuring the client wears a medical mask at all times.

Correct answer: Assisting them with frequent hand washing or sanitizing.

Explanation: Frequent hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection prevention and control. Assisting a client with dementia to wash or sanitize their hands regularly, especially after coughing or before meals, directly targets the transmission route and is a key Routine Practice.