The charge nurse is teaching unit nurses about droplet precautions. Which statement by one of the nurses indicates further teaching is needed by the charge nurse?
“Mumps is a viral infection that requires droplet precautions.”
“Pharyngeal diphtheria is a viral infection that requires droplet precautions.”
“Pertussis is a bacterial respiratory infection that requires droplet precautions.”
“Mycoplasma pneumonia is a bacterial respiratory infection that requires droplet precautions.”
Number 2 is correct.
Rationale: Pharyngeal diphtheria is a bacterial respiratory infection, not viral. Mumps is a viral infection that requires droplet precautions. Pertussis and mycoplasma pneumonia are both bacterial respiratory infections that require droplet precautions. Droplets usually travel no farther than 3 feet from the client. Standard precautions along with a surgical mask must be worn when working within 3 feet of a client who is on droplet precautions.
