NCLEX-RNSafety and Infection Prevention and ControlMedium
A nurse is caring for a client who is diagnosed with a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and requires an aerosol-generating procedure (e.g., nebulizer treatment). Which personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse prioritize for this procedure?
- AFace shield, surgical mask, and gloves only.
- BStandard surgical mask, gown, and gloves.
- CGown, gloves, and a regular procedure mask.
- DN95 respirator, gown, gloves, and eye protection.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. N95 respirator, gown, gloves, and eye protection.
Aerosol-generating procedures for clients with airborne transmissible diseases like SARS-CoV-2 require enhanced respiratory protection. An N95 respirator is essential to filter airborne particles, along with a gown, gloves, and eye protection for full barrier protection.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option lacks a gown for body fluid protection and relies on a surgical mask, which is insufficient for airborne precautions.
- B. A standard surgical mask does not provide adequate respiratory protection against airborne particles generated during aerosol-generating procedures.
- C. A regular procedure mask is insufficient for airborne precautions and aerosol-generating procedures.
PPE for Aerosol-Generating Procedures (AGPs)
Specific personal protective equipment required when performing procedures that can create aerosols, increasing the risk of airborne disease transmission.
- N95 respirator is essential for respiratory protection.
- Eye protection (goggles or face shield) prevents mucous membrane exposure.
- Gown and gloves protect against contact transmission and splashes.
Memory trick: N-95 for Air, Gown-Gloves-Eyes for Care.