A client arrives at the urgent care clinic reporting a three-week history of a persistent cough, night sweats, and blood-tinged sputum. The triage nurse strongly suspects active pulmonary tuberculosis. Which initial safety measure must the nurse implement?
- Escort the client to an airborne infection isolation room and apply a fit-tested N95 respirator.Answer
- BPlace the client in a standard private room and initiate droplet precautions.
- CPrioritize obtaining a sputum culture before moving the client from the main waiting area.
- DInstruct the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to auscultate the client's lung sounds.
Answer
The nurse must immediately escort the client to an airborne infection isolation room and apply a fit-tested N95 respirator.
The correct answer directly addresses the highest priority in this scenario: containing a highly contagious airborne pathogen. By immediately placing the client in a specialized isolation room and using the correct personal protective equipment (N95 respirator), the nurse prevents accidental exposure to other vulnerable clients and staff in the clinic environment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Airborne Precautions and Infection Control Priorities