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)
□ disinfect only the surfaces the patient has touched.
□ isolate patients who are coughing in a separate reception area.
□ have masks of all sizes available to patients.
□ refuse to make appointments for patients who are coughing.
□ wear a mask when assisting patients who are coughing.
□ wear gloves, a gown, goggles and a mask if a patient is coughing uncontrollably or if there is considerable spray.

Explanation:

• Disinfecting touched surfaces (first option) helps prevent spread of pathogens from cough - related contamination.
• Isolating coughing patients (fourth option) reduces exposure to others.
• Having masks for patients (third option) helps patients contain their cough - related droplets.
• Wearing a mask when assisting coughing patients (fifth option) protects the caregiver.
• Wearing full PPE (gloves, gown, goggles, mask) for uncontrollable cough or spray (sixth option) is appropriate for higher - risk situations.
• Refusing appointments (second option) is inappropriate as patients need care; we should take preventive measures instead.

Answer:

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