Which statement correctly describes precautions used for Ebola in healthcare settings?

Which statement correctly describes precautions used for Ebola in healthcare settings?

• A. Standard, contact, airborne, and droplet precautions are used.
• B. Only contact precautions are needed.
• C. No isolation precautions are necessary.
• D. Droplet precautions only.

Answer: (A)

Understand how Ebola can be transmitted and why multiple layers of precautions are used. Ebola spreads primarily through contact with infected bodily fluids, so standard precautions are needed for every patient to prevent exposure during routine care. Because the virus can contaminate surfaces and equipment, using contact precautions—gown and gloves, with proper handling of contaminated items—adds protection against indirect transmission. In close contact situations, respiratory droplets can be produced, so droplet precautions—mask and eye protection—help prevent transmission from these droplets. In high-risk procedures that generate aerosols, smaller particles can be inhaled, so airborne precautions are implemented (negative-pressure room and respirator or higher) to protect healthcare workers during those procedures. Putting all four layers together—standard, contact, droplet, and airborne precautions—provides comprehensive protection in healthcare settings when caring for someone with Ebola, reflecting the need to cover baseline safety, direct contact with fluids, droplet spread, and potential aerosols during procedures. If only one type were used, routes of transmission could still pose a risk, which is why the combined approach is considered best.

Understand how Ebola can be transmitted and why multiple layers of precautions are used. Ebola spreads primarily through contact with infected bodily fluids, so standard precautions are needed for every patient to prevent exposure during routine care. Because the virus can contaminate surfaces and equipment, using contact precautions—gown and gloves, with proper handling of contaminated items—adds protection against indirect transmission. In close contact situations, respiratory droplets can be produced, so droplet precautions—mask and eye protection—help prevent transmission from these droplets. In high-risk procedures that generate aerosols, smaller particles can be inhaled, so airborne precautions are implemented (negative-pressure room and respirator or higher) to protect healthcare workers during those procedures. Putting all four layers together—standard, contact, droplet, and airborne precautions—provides comprehensive protection in healthcare settings when caring for someone with Ebola, reflecting the need to cover baseline safety, direct contact with fluids, droplet spread, and potential aerosols during procedures. If only one type were used, routes of transmission could still pose a risk, which is why the combined approach is considered best.