A practical nurse (PN) is assisting with the admission of a client who has a suspected diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Which of the following infection control measures should the PN implement? (Select all that apply.)
- Keep the door to the client's room closed at all times.Answer
- BMaintain a distance of at least 3 feet when speaking with the client if not wearing a mask.
- Don a fit-tested N95 respirator prior to entering the client's room.Answer
- DWear a fluid-resistant gown and clean gloves when delivering the client's meal tray.
- EAssign the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to evaluate the client's understanding of isolation protocols.
- Apply a standard surgical mask on the client during transport to the radiology department.Answer
Answer
The correct infection control measures are: keeping the room door closed at all times, donning a fit-tested N95 respirator prior to entering the room, and applying a standard surgical mask on the client during necessary transport.
Active pulmonary tuberculosis is transmitted through small airborne droplet nuclei. Therefore, airborne precautions are strictly required. This includes placing the client in a negative-pressure Airborne Infection Isolation Room (AIIR) and keeping the door closed to maintain proper airflow. Healthcare personnel must wear a fit-tested N95 respirator before entering the room. If the client must leave the room for an essential procedure, they must wear a standard surgical mask to filter their exhaled breath and prevent environmental contamination.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Airborne precautions require a negative-pressure isolation room, a fit-tested N95 respirator for healthcare workers, and a standard surgical mask for the client during transport. Delegation to UAPs must not include assessment or evaluation tasks.