Question

select all that apply
which of the following actions would be appropriate ways to handle patients with coughs during local or regional outbreaks?
(more than one answer may be correct)
□ have masks of all sizes available to patients.
□ isolate patients who are coughing in a separate reception area.
□ wear gloves, a gown, goggles and a mask if a patient is coughing uncontrollably or if there is considerable spray.
□ wear a mask when assisting patients who are coughing.
□ disinfect only the surfaces the patient has touched.
□ refuse to make appointments for patients who are coughing.

Explanation:

• Have masks of all sizes available to patients: Ensures patients can get appropriate - fitting masks for protection.
• Isolate patients who are coughing in a separate reception area: Reduces the spread of potential infectious agents by separating coughing patients from others.
• Wear gloves, a gown, goggles and a mask if a patient is coughing uncontrollably or if there is considerable spray: This is standard personal protective equipment (PPE) use to protect healthcare workers from exposure.
• Wear a mask when assisting patients who are coughing: Helps prevent the spread of respiratory droplets to the healthcare worker.
• Disinfect only the surfaces the patient has touched is incorrect as more thorough disinfection may be needed, and Refuse to make appointments for patients who are coughing is unethical and against medical practice as patients need care.

Answer:

• Have masks of all sizes available to patients.
• Isolate patients who are coughing in a separate reception area.
• Wear gloves, a gown, goggles and a mask if a patient is coughing uncontrollably or if there is considerable spray.
• Wear a mask when assisting patients who are coughing.