Question

which of the following would have the highest risk of infection?

○ palpating a patients distended abdomen
○ performing a bilateral ear irrigation
○ performing a digital rectal exam to check the prostate
○ suturing a cut on the inside of a patients mouth

Explanation:

To determine the highest infection risk, we analyze each option:

• Palpating the abdomen: Non - invasive, low risk as skin is intact (if no open wounds).
• Bilateral ear irrigation: Usually involves external ear; risk is moderate as external ear has some natural defenses.
• Digital rectal exam: Invasive but rectum has some bacteria, yet the mouth has a very high microbial load.
• Suturing inside the mouth: The oral cavity is full of bacteria (both normal flora and potential pathogens). When suturing a cut in the mouth, the wound is exposed to this high - bacteria environment, increasing the chance of infection. Also, the moist, warm environment in the mouth promotes bacterial growth.

Answer:

D. Suturing a cut on the inside of a patient's mouth