Question

The nurse is assigned to a patient who has a bacterial pneumonia and is under droplet precautions, which personal protective equipment (PPE) will s/he wear to deliver the meal tray?
1. Special filtration mask and gloves.
2. Only mask is needed.
3. Gown, mask, gloves, shoe covers.
4. No PPE required.
5.

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Only mask is needed.

Explanation:-

Droplet precautions:-

• This category is intended to prevent transmission of pathogens spread through droplets that move through the air over a short distance (1-2 meters), Droplets are generated by a cough or sneeze from the person with the infection.
• Examples of infections include influenza, pneumonia, pertussis, and rubella. The patient is ideally placed in a single-patient room.
• If transport or movement is necessary, instruct the patient to wear a mask and follow respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette.
• HCWs should wear a standard mask during close, direct patient care (e.g., < 1-2 meters).
• Sodium hypochlorite is used as a disinfectant to disinfect the Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) used by sanitation workers.

•  Pneumonia
  • Pneumonia is a serious infection of the lungs caused by various bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
  • It can be mild and sometimes even prove fatal.
  • It affects people with weakened immune systems, older people above 65 years of age, infants, and young children.
  • Pneumonia can be bacterial, viral, or mycoplasmic.