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What air pressure does an airborne infection isolation room hold relative to the surrounding area?
APositive pressure, so that room air flows outward
BEqual pressure, held steady by a balanced supply
CNegative pressure, and it is monitored
DPressure that alternates on a timed cycle
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. Negative pressure, and it is monitored
1. The room specification calls for monitored negative pressure relative to the surrounding area.
2. Negative pressure draws corridor air inward, so contaminated room air does not spill into the ward.
3. Positive pressure does the reverse and is the specification for a Protective Environment, not for airborne isolation.
4. Balanced or cycling pressure would leave no reliable direction of airflow, so neither is used.
_Source: CDC Guideline for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings (2007), Part III, section III.B.3. Airborne precautions_
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