Masks are used to reduce the spread of microorganisms transmitted via droplets and are used for patients on which precautions?

• A. Contact precautions
• B. Airborne precautions
• C. Droplet precautions
• D. Standard precautions

Answer: (C)

Masks block large respiratory droplets that are expelled when someone talks, coughs, or sneezes. Because these infections spread mainly through those short-range droplets, the appropriate precautions are droplet precautions. Droplets typically travel only a short distance, about 3 feet, so masks are worn by staff when near the patient and the patient is often placed in a private room when possible. Airborne precautions deal with much smaller particles that can linger in the air, requiring an N95 respirator and a negative-pressure room. Contact precautions focus on preventing transmission through direct or indirect contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces, using gloves and gowns. Standard precautions are the baseline practices used with all patients, emphasizing hand hygiene and barrier protection.