An emergency department nurse is developing a plan of care for a newly admitted client who has a severe *Clostridioides difficile* infection and presents with a diffuse, crusted vesicular rash confirmed to be disseminated herpes zoster. Which of the following transmission-based precaution interventions should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.
- Transfer the client to an airborne infection isolation room (AIIR) with negative-pressure airflow.Answer
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water upon exiting the client's room.Answer
- Wear a fit-tested N95 respirator, isolation gown, and clean gloves prior to entering the room.Answer
- DPlace a fit-tested N95 respirator on the client if transport to another department is necessary.
- EUtilize an alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately after doffing gloves to neutralize pathogens.
- FDelegate the initial assessment of the client's disseminated skin lesions to the licensed practical nurse (LPN).
Answer
The correct interventions are transferring the client to a negative-pressure AIIR, washing hands with soap and water upon exiting, and wearing an N95 respirator, gown, and gloves prior to entering.
The client requires a synthesis of Airborne and Contact precautions. A negative-pressure Airborne Infection Isolation Room (AIIR) and an N95 respirator are mandatory for the disseminated herpes zoster. Gowns and gloves are required for the contact risks associated with both conditions. Crucially, the presence of C. difficile mandates strict handwashing with soap and water, as alcohol-based sanitizers do not eradicate the spores.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Concurrent implementation of Airborne, Contact, and Enteric precautions, alongside safe delegation principles.