Which isolation precautions are appropriate for a client with shingles?

Prepare for the Hurst Readiness Exam 2 with engaging quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Master your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which isolation precautions are appropriate for a client with shingles?

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is most contagious through direct contact with the fluid from vesicles. Airborne precautions are only added when there is a concern for airborne spread, such as with disseminated herpes zoster or involvement that could release aerosolized virus. In that scenario, using a private room with negative-pressure airflow helps prevent the virus from circulating to others, and an N-95 respirator protects healthcare workers from inhaling any aerosolized particles. That combination provides the highest level of protection for staff when airborne spread is a possibility. The other options either rely on standard or only contact precautions, allow room sharing, or omit respiratory protection, which would be insufficient if airborne transmission is a concern.

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is most contagious through direct contact with the fluid from vesicles. Airborne precautions are only added when there is a concern for airborne spread, such as with disseminated herpes zoster or involvement that could release aerosolized virus. In that scenario, using a private room with negative-pressure airflow helps prevent the virus from circulating to others, and an N-95 respirator protects healthcare workers from inhaling any aerosolized particles. That combination provides the highest level of protection for staff when airborne spread is a possibility.

The other options either rely on standard or only contact precautions, allow room sharing, or omit respiratory protection, which would be insufficient if airborne transmission is a concern.

More practice questions