An unlicensed assistive personnel(UAP) is assigned to feed a client who has received a prescription to institute droplet precautions for a bacterial meningitis infection. The UAP requests a change in assignment, reporting having not yet been fitted for a particulate filter mask. Which action should the nurse take?

A. Before changing assignments, determine which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks: Particulate filter masks, such as N95 respirators, are required for airborne precautions, not droplet precautions. Bacterial meningitis is transmitted via large respiratory droplets, so requiring an N95 mask is unnecessary. B. Advise the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs, and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care: Droplet precautions only require a standard surgical mask when within close proximity to the client. Requiring an N95 fit for routine feeding or vital sign assessment imposes an unnecessary barrier to care and is not evidence-based. C. Instruct the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to be able to provide care for the assigned client: Droplet precautions involve wearing a surgical mask when within 3–6 feet of the client, practicing hand hygiene, and using gloves and gown as indicated. Since bacterial meningitis is spread via respiratory droplets and not airborne particles, a standard mask provides adequate protection, making it safe for the UAP to continue care. D. Send the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client: Fitting a particulate filter mask is only required for airborne precautions, such as for tuberculosis or measles. Sending the UAP for N95 fitting delays essential care unnecessarily and is not supported by infection-control guidelines for droplet precautions.