What should you do with a student's soiled clothing?

• A. Send home in a plastic bag.
• B. Leave it on the student until the end of the day.
• C. Put it in the classroom laundry hamper.
• D. Wash it in the classroom sink.

Answer: (A)

When handling soiled clothing, the priority is to contain it and protect both the student's dignity and the classroom. Placing the item in a sealed plastic bag and sending it home with the student keeps waste contained, prevents spread of germs, and respects privacy by avoiding visibility of the soiled clothing in class. It also aligns with typical school health practices that items like this are returned to families for cleaning. Leaving the clothing on the student or in a classroom laundry area creates hygiene risks and potential embarrassment, while washing it in a classroom sink lacks proper facilities and sanitation controls. After bagging, communicate with the family or school nurse as needed and follow proper hand hygiene when handling soiled items.