Question

Which client should be cared for using airborne transmission-based precautions? A. A 5-year-old with rubella B. A 6-month-old with rotovirus C. A 2-month-old with pertussis D. A 6-year-old with varicella

Short answer

Answer: D. A 6-year-old with varicella

Step-by-step solution

Understanding airborne transmission-based precautions

Airborne transmission-based precautions are used to protect against diseases that are transmitted through the air. These precautions involve the use of personal protective equipment, such as masks and respirators, and placing the patient in a negative air pressure room to prevent the spread of the infectious agent.

Analyzing each option

A. A 5-year-old with rubella - Rubella, also known as German measles, is a viral infection that is spread through respiratory droplets. It can also be transmitted through the air, especially in close contact settings. Therefore, airborne precautions may be necessary for this case. B. A 6-month-old with rotavirus - Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that causes diarrhea. It is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning it does not require airborne precautions. Contact precautions would be used instead. C. A 2-month-old with pertussis - Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. It is spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Although it can be transmitted through the air, it does not typically require airborne precautions but rather droplet precautions are used. D. A 6-year-old with varicella - Varicella, or chickenpox, is a highly contagious viral infection. It is transmitted through direct contact with skin lesions, respiratory droplets, and airborne spread from the patient's respiratory secretions. Airborne precautions are necessary for this case.

Identifying the correct answer

Based on our analysis, both the 5-year-old with rubella (option A) and the 6-year-old with varicella (option D) require airborne transmission-based precautions. However, since the varicella infection has a higher risk of airborne transmission, the correct answer is: D. A 6-year-old with varicella