What do airborne precautions require a healthcare worker to wear?

Study for the Arkansas CNA Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your test!

Airborne precautions are a specific set of infection control practices to prevent the transmission of pathogens that can be spread through the air via droplets smaller than 5 microns. When caring for patients who are known to be infected with or are suspected to be infected with such airborne pathogens, healthcare workers must wear a special respirator mask, such as an N95 or a similar type of mask.

These respirators are designed to filter out harmful airborne particles and ensure that the healthcare worker is protected from inhaling infectious agents. Regular surgical masks do not provide the same level of filtration and protection against fine particles. Additionally, the use of a face shield is not mandatory for airborne precautions; however, it may be considered for certain procedures to protect against splashes or droplets. Therefore, the requirement for a special respirator mask is critical in maintaining safety and preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

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