What are droplet precautions required for?

Droplet precautions are specifically required for patients known or suspected to be infected with pathogens that are transmitted through large-particle droplets. These droplets can be generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and they can travel a short distance before settling. The effective implementation of droplet precautions helps prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses and other infections, such as influenza or COVID-19.

In practice, droplet precautions include wearing a surgical mask for healthcare workers and visitors while in the presence of the patient, ensuring the patient is in a private room or with others who have the same infection, and maintaining proper hand hygiene. This approach reduces the likelihood of transmission to susceptible individuals, providing a safer environment within healthcare settings.

The other options involve different types of precautions or do not pertain to the specific transmission route associated with droplet precautions. For instance, infections related to insects or skin issues typically fall under other types of isolation, while food-related illnesses may require precautions focused on hygiene and food safety rather than droplet transmission.