Which precaution is used for a patient with an infection spread by droplets?

Prepare for the Nurse Aide I Module B – Infection Prevention Test. Leverage multiple choice questions, detailed flashcards, and comprehensive explanations. Ensure your readiness for the exam!

Droplet precautions are used when an infection spreads through large respiratory droplets that travel only a short distance, such as when a patient coughs, sneezes, or talks. To prevent transmission, place the patient in a private room if possible, keep others at a close but safe distance (about three feet), and have staff wear a surgical mask when in close contact. The patient should wear a mask during transport to limit spread, and eye protection is used if there’s a risk of droplets reaching the eyes. Standard precautions still apply for all patients, with gloves and gowns added as required by the specific care activities. This differs from airborne precautions, which protect against smaller particles that linger in the air and require a negative-pressure room and N95 respirator, and from contact precautions, which focus on preventing transmission through direct or indirect contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces.