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Culture results are two days away for a patient whose symptoms suggest a transmissible infection. What is done about precautions?
AWait for the confirmed result before starting any
BStart precautions now based on the likely pathogens
CStart precautions only if a fever develops as well
DRely on hand hygiene alone until the result lands
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Start precautions now based on the likely pathogens
1. Diagnosis of many infections needs laboratory confirmation, which takes time the patient and the ward do not have.
2. Precautions are implemented while test results are pending, chosen from the clinical presentation and the likely pathogens.
3. Starting at the moment symptoms appear or the patient arrives reduces the chances for transmission.
4. Waiting for confirmation, or waiting for a fever, leaves the ward exposed for the whole waiting period.
_Source: CDC Guideline for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings (2007), Part III, section III.C. Syndromic and Empiric Applications of Transmission-Based Precautions_
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