Transmission-Based Precautions

The use of transmission-based precautions is the CDC's current recommendation for isolating patients with known infections.

1. Direct Contact Precautions - Physical transfer of pathogens by touching the skin or mucus membranes of an infected person or touching a patient's dressing or bed rail.

A. Examples: MRSA, VRE, E. Coli, clostridium difficile, hepatitis A and impetigo

B. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Gown and gloves (gowns and gloves should be removed and hands washed before leaving the patient's room)

C. Other Precautions: Patients must wear a mask and impervious gown when they leave their room.

 

2. Transmission by Droplet - Infection occurs when infected person coughs, sneezes or talks spraying the pathogens on previously uninfected person

A. Examples: Influenza, diptheria, common cold, rubella, mumps and pneumonia

B. PPE: Mask

C. Other Precautions: Patients should wear a surgical mask when they leave their room.

 

3. Airborne Transmission - Infected droplets or evaporated droplets suspended in air or infected dust particles are inhaled by the host (respiratory isolation)

A. Examples: Tuberculosis, chickenpox and measles

B. PPE: Particulate respirators

C. Other Precautions: Patient rooms must have negative air flow and the doors should remain shut at all times. Patients must wear surgical mask to filter expired air when they leave their room.