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Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A practical nurse is reinforcing infection control instructions with the family members of a client who is placed on droplet precautions for pertussis. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the family?

  1. You must put on a standard surgical mask before entering the client's room.Answer
  2. B
    You are required to wear a fit-tested N95 respirator during your entire visit.
  3. C
    You must wear a disposable isolation gown and gloves while inside the room.
  4. D
    You may remove your mask as long as you remain at least two feet away from the client.

Answer

The nurse should instruct family members to put on a standard surgical mask before entering the room.
Pertussis is transmitted through large respiratory droplets. Droplet precautions require all individuals entering the client's room, including healthcare workers and visitors, to wear a standard surgical mask. This acts as a barrier to protect the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth from infectious droplets.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the mode of transmission for pertussis (whooping cough).
Pertussis is transmitted via large respiratory droplets generated by coughing or sneezing.
Knowing the transmission route is necessary to determine the correct category of isolation precautions.
2
Determine the personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for droplet precautions.
A standard surgical mask is required for anyone entering the client's room or coming within 3 to 6 feet of the client.
Large droplets fall to surfaces relatively quickly and do not remain suspended in the air, so a surgical mask provides adequate protection for the mucous membranes.
3
Evaluate the options against standard droplet precaution protocols.
Only the instruction to wear a surgical mask upon entry correctly aligns with droplet precautions.
The other options incorrectly describe airborne precautions, contact precautions, or unsafe distancing practices.

Key Concept

Droplet Precautions
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Standard and Transmission-Based Precautions

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