After providing care for a client diagnosed with active pulmonary tuberculosis in a negative-pressure isolation room, a nurse prepares to remove personal protective equipment (PPE). The nurse is currently wearing clean gloves, an isolation gown, a face shield, and a particulate respirator. Which action demonstrates the correct procedure for removing the respirator?
- ARemove the respirator first before taking off the contaminated gown and gloves.
- BRemove the respirator inside the room immediately before opening the door.
- Remove the respirator outside the client's room after exiting and closing the door.Answer
- DRemove the respirator in the doorway before stepping out of the negative-pressure room.
Answer
Remove the respirator outside the client's room after exiting and closing the door.
For clients on airborne precautions, such as those with active pulmonary tuberculosis, the particulate respirator must remain in place until the nurse has completely exited the negative-pressure room and securely closed the door. This sequence ensures continuous respiratory protection against infectious airborne particles that remain suspended in the room's air environment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Personal protective equipment (PPE) doffing sequence for airborne precautions