Question

Difficulty: MediumStandard and Transmission-Based Precautions

A nurse is planning care for a pediatric client who is newly admitted with suspected pertussis. Which of the following infection control measures should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.

  1. Assign the client to a private room.Answer
  2. Don a standard surgical mask upon entering the client's room.Answer
  3. C
    Ensure the client's room has negative air pressure relative to the hallway.
  4. Have the client wear a standard surgical mask when transported outside the room.Answer
  5. E
    Require visitors to wear an N95 respirator while in the client's room.
  6. F
    Don a disposable gown and gloves prior to measuring the client's vital signs.

Answer

The nurse should assign the client to a private room, don a standard surgical mask upon entering the room, and have the client wear a standard surgical mask during necessary transport.
Pertussis is transmitted via large droplets. Therefore, the correct interventions include placing the client in a private room to isolate the pathogen, wearing a standard surgical mask to protect the healthcare worker from droplets, and placing a standard surgical mask on the client to contain secretions during transport.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the mode of transmission for the pathogen.
Pertussis (whooping cough) is transmitted via large respiratory droplets.
Determining the transmission route dictates the appropriate tier of transmission-based precautions.
2
Select the correct category of isolation precautions.
Droplet precautions are indicated for this client.
Droplet precautions prevent the spread of pathogens that travel short distances through the air.
3
Determine the required interventions for droplet precautions.
Appropriate interventions include a private room, a surgical mask for healthcare providers, and a surgical mask for the client during transport.
These specific barriers interrupt the transmission of large droplets.

Key Concept

Pertussis requires droplet precautions, which involve placing the client in a private room and wearing a standard surgical mask when providing care.
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