A nurse is assisting with the admission of a client who has varicella zoster. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. A negative pressure room is correct. Varicella zoster, which causes chickenpox, is an airborne virus. Therefore, airborne precautions are required, which include placing the client in a negative pressure room to prevent the spread of the virus to other areas of the facility. B. Administering aspirin is incorrect. Aspirin should not be given to children or adolescents with varicella zoster due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. Instead, an antipyretic such as acetaminophen should be used to treat fever. C. Contact precautions are not sufficient for varicella zoster, as the virus requires airborne precautions to prevent transmission through the air. D. Having visitors remain at least 0.91 m (3 feet) away is incorrect. Airborne precautions require that visitors wear appropriate PPE, including respirators, and should not be restricted to 3 feet away. Ideally, visitors should wear full protective gear when entering the room.