A pediatric client is admitted to the inpatient unit with a confirmed diagnosis of active varicella (chickenpox). When planning care for this client, which of the following infection control interventions should the nurse implement? (Select all that apply.)
- Place the client in a single-patient room with monitored negative air pressure.Answer
- Don a disposable gown and clean gloves upon entering the client's room.Answer
- Apply a standard surgical mask to the client if transport outside the room is necessary.Answer
- DRemove the fit-tested N95 respirator inside the room just before opening the door to exit.
- EAssign a nurse who lacks documented immunity to varicella but has been fit-tested for an N95 respirator.
- FKeep the door to the client's room propped open slightly to facilitate close observation.
Answer
The nurse should place the client in a negative-pressure room, wear a gown and gloves upon entry, and place a surgical mask on the client during necessary transport.
Active varicella necessitates both Airborne and Contact Precautions. Placing the client in a monitored negative-pressure room prevents aerosols from entering the hallway. Donning a gown and gloves protects the nurse from contact with infectious vesicular fluid. Applying a surgical mask to the client during transport acts as source control, preventing the spread of airborne droplets to other areas of the hospital.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Varicella (Chickenpox) requires both Airborne and Contact Precautions, including an AIIR, N95 respirator, gown, gloves, and restriction of susceptible healthcare workers.