Droplet Precautions
Follow standard precautions!!!
Use to Protect Against:
Droplet precautions are used for patients or inmates known or suspected to be infected with diseases that are spread by microorganisms passed on by droplets (large-particle droplets that are larger than 5 microns). Droplets are produced by coughing, sneezing, talking or some medical procedures such as sputum induction. Large droplets usually travel a few feet or less and do not remain suspended in the air. Therefore, special ventilation is not necessary.
Patient placement
Place the person in a private room if available. Rooms can be shared if the patients have the same, but no other active infection. If these options are not possible, contagious individuals should be kept at least 3 feet apart.
Mask
A mask should be worn when working within 3 feet of the infected person. (AFSCME recommends wearing a respirator whenever entering a droplet isolation room.)
Transport
Transporting infectious persons should be limited to essential purposes. The contagious person should wear a surgical mask to prevent the spread of droplets.
