Emergency Preparedness

Kern Medical Bioterrorism Response Guide Section 2-B – Droplet Precautions

DROPLET PRECAUTIONS Pneumonic plague can be transmitted to healthcare workers when the infected patient coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Transmission requires close contact (within 3 feet) between the infected patient and the healthcare worker. In addition to Standard Precautions, Droplet Precautions should be followed for patients with suspect or diagnosed pneumonic plague. Patient Placement Place the patient in a private room, if available. Patients with the same diagnosis or similar syndrome may be cohorted (grouped) in semi-private rooms. When a private room or cohorting is not achievable, spatially separate the infected patient three (3) or more feet away from a non-infected patient. Negative pressure isolation rooms or HEPA filtration units are not required. The door to the patient’s room can remain open. Respiratory Protection Wear a surgical mask over the nose and mouth when entering the patient’s room or within 3 feet of the infected patient. Transporting Patients Transport infected patients only when necessary. Place a surgical mask over the patient’s nose and mouth, if tolerated. If an elevator is used, all occupants should be masked. Visitors Limit visitors to immediate family members or significant others. Instruct visitors to wash their hands before and after patient contact and to wear a surgical mask when within three feet of the infected patient.

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