Name two types of transmission-based precautions and when they are used.

• A. Airborne precautions (negative pressure for TB) and contact precautions (gloves and gown) for all infections.
• B. Droplet and airborne precautions used together for all infections.
• C. Contact precautions (gown and gloves) for infections like MRSA; Droplet precautions (mask and eye protection as needed) for diseases like influenza.
• D. Contact precautions for MRSA; Airborne precautions for influenza.

Answer: (C)

Transmission-based precautions are chosen based on how the infection spreads. Two common types are contact precautions and droplet precautions. Contact precautions use a gown and gloves to prevent transmission through direct touch or by touching contaminated surfaces, and they’re used for infections like MRSA. Droplet precautions protect against larger respiratory droplets that travel short distances when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes, so a mask is worn and eye protection if splash risk exists; these are used for diseases like influenza. Airborne precautions are a separate category for diseases spread by tiny airborne particles and require negative-pressure rooms and respirators, which isn’t necessary for MRSA or influenza.