Which of the following measures should the nurse take when caring for the hospitalized client with TB?

Question

a. Double-bag and dispose of client secretions as infectious waste.
b. Wear gown, gloves, goggles, head cover, particulate respiratory mask, and shoe covers when entering the client's room.
c. Instruct the client to wear a surgical mask at all times.
d. Select reusable care items and keep them in the client's room.

Answer 1

A
Nursing care of a client initially hospitalized with active TB involves using airborne precautions in addition to Standard Precautions and placing the client in an isolation room with negative air pressure. Health care personnel should use particulate respirator masks. The client is instructed to cover his or her mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. The nurse monitors the client's respiratory status and instructs the client and family about the disease process (e.g., symptoms disappear well before organisms are eliminated from the body) and the necessity of long-term therapy. The nurse should emphasize the importance of the medication regimen, including the consequences of noncompliance for the client and family. If needed, community health referrals for home care should be arranged.