CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A resident with confirmed tuberculosis (TB) requires care. Which type of respiratory protection must the nurse aide use before entering the room?
- ACloth face covering
- BN95 respirator
- CNo mask needed if gloves are worn
- DStandard surgical mask
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. N95 respirator
Tuberculosis is spread by airborne transmission, requiring a fitted N95 respirator to filter tiny airborne particles that can remain suspended in air. Surgical masks and cloth coverings do not filter small enough particles for airborne pathogens.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cloth coverings offer minimal filtration and are inadequate.
- C. Gloves protect against contact, not airborne respiratory exposure.
- D. Surgical masks do not filter tiny airborne particles like TB bacteria.
Airborne Precautions
Precautions used for diseases that spread through tiny airborne particles capable of remaining suspended in air, such as TB, measles, and chickenpox.
- Requires fitted N95 respirator
- Resident often placed in negative-pressure room
- Door must remain closed
Memory trick: Airborne germs float far, so you need a face-fitted filter, not just a mask.