Colorado CNA Practice Exam

The nurse aide SHOULD place soiled linen:

1. In a plastic bag

2. On the counter

3. In the dirty linen container

4. On the floor

The correct answer is: In a plastic bag

In a healthcare setting, proper handling of soiled linen is crucial for infection control and maintaining a safe environment. Placing soiled linen in a plastic bag is the correct practice because it helps to contain any contaminants and reduces the risk of spreading pathogens. The use of a plastic bag ensures that the soiled items are securely collected and can be transported to the laundry facility without risk to other areas of the facility or exposure to staff and residents. Other methods, such as placing soiled linen on the counter, in a dirty linen container, or on the floor, are not appropriate. While placing linen in a dirty linen container is generally acceptable, using a plastic bag adds an additional layer of containment that aligns with best practices for hygiene and infection prevention. Storing soiled linen on the counter or the floor can lead to contamination of surfaces and create an unsafe environment. Hence, using a plastic bag is the most effective and safest method for handling soiled linen.