Which isolation precaution should be implemented for suspected SARS in the ED?

Which isolation precaution should be implemented for suspected SARS in the ED?

• A. Standard, contact, and airborne precautions
• B. Droplet precautions only
• C. Airborne precautions only
• D. Contact precautions only

Answer: (A)

Layered infection-control precautions are essential when a respiratory infection could spread through multiple routes. For suspected SARS in the ED, you protect staff and other patients by applying standard precautions to every patient and adding measures to prevent transmission via both contact and airborne routes. This means using contact precautions (gloves and gown) to stop spread from contaminated secretions and surfaces, plus airborne precautions (a fit-tested respirator such as an N95, eye protection, and, if possible, a negative-pressure room) to prevent inhalation of small infectious particles, especially during aerosol-generating procedures. In practice, place the patient in a private room with appropriate air handling if available, and ensure all staff wear the full PPE and follow meticulous hand hygiene. The other options cover only one transmission route and would miss the others.

Layered infection-control precautions are essential when a respiratory infection could spread through multiple routes. For suspected SARS in the ED, you protect staff and other patients by applying standard precautions to every patient and adding measures to prevent transmission via both contact and airborne routes. This means using contact precautions (gloves and gown) to stop spread from contaminated secretions and surfaces, plus airborne precautions (a fit-tested respirator such as an N95, eye protection, and, if possible, a negative-pressure room) to prevent inhalation of small infectious particles, especially during aerosol-generating procedures. In practice, place the patient in a private room with appropriate air handling if available, and ensure all staff wear the full PPE and follow meticulous hand hygiene. The other options cover only one transmission route and would miss the others.