A nurse is assisting with planning care for a client who was admitted for reports of severe coughing, night sweats, and blood in the sputum. Which of the following precautions should the nurse take?

The scenario involves planning care for a client with symptoms highly suggestive of active pulmonary tuberculosis. Knowledge of infection control practices, transmission modes, and isolation precautions must be applied to prevent nosocomial spread of airborne pathogens. Choice A rationale A surgical mask is inadequate for airborne pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Healthcare workers must wear a fitted N95 respirator mask to filter microscopic droplet nuclei suspended in the air. Choice B rationale Airborne droplet nuclei remain suspended in the air for long periods and travel long distances. Remaining within 91.4 cm is a droplet precaution concept, which is insufficient for airborne isolation protocols. Choice C rationale Pulmonary tuberculosis requires airborne precautions. A negative-pressure airflow room prevents contaminated air from escaping into the corridor by exhausting room air directly outside through high-efficiency particulate air filtration systems. Choice D rationale Soiled linens must be contained inside the client's room to prevent environmental contamination and exposure to staff. Placing the linen container outside the door violates basic infection control and isolation protocols..