NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)Safety and ComplianceMedium
A phlebotomy technician is reviewing a new policy on personal protective equipment (PPE) for airborne precautions. Which of the following PPE items is specifically required when entering the room of a patient on airborne precautions?
- ASurgical mask
- BSterile gloves
- CFace shield
- DN95 respirator
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. N95 respirator
Airborne precautions are used for diseases spread by small airborne particles, such as tuberculosis or measles. An N95 respirator provides filtration against these tiny particles, unlike a standard surgical mask.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A surgical mask filters droplets but not the smaller airborne particles, making it insufficient for airborne precautions.
- B. Sterile gloves are for sterile procedures, not specifically airborne precautions for room entry.
- C. A face shield protects the eyes and face from splashes but does not filter airborne particles.
Airborne Precautions PPE
Specific personal protective equipment used to prevent transmission of infectious agents spread by airborne droplet nuclei (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Varicella-zoster virus, Measles virus).
- Requires specialized respiratory protection (N95 or higher).
- Patient typically in a negative pressure isolation room.
- Donning and doffing procedures are critical.
Memory trick: Tiny Air Particles Need N95 Protection!