Which condition is an example of contact precautions?

Which condition is an example of contact precautions?

• A. Pink eye
• B. Measles
• C. Tuberculosis
• D. Influenza

Answer: (A)

Contact precautions are used when an infection spreads by direct contact with a person or with contaminated surfaces. Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is typically spread through eye discharge and touching surfaces or other people, so gloves and a gown are worn to prevent transmission and to keep secretions from spreading to others. In contrast, measles and tuberculosis spread through the air, requiring airborne precautions (special rooms and respirators), and influenza is managed mainly with droplet precautions (a mask and other barriers when within close proximity). So pink eye fits the contact precautions scenario because its transmission is primarily by direct contact with contaminated secretions.

Contact precautions are used when an infection spreads by direct contact with a person or with contaminated surfaces. Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is typically spread through eye discharge and touching surfaces or other people, so gloves and a gown are worn to prevent transmission and to keep secretions from spreading to others. In contrast, measles and tuberculosis spread through the air, requiring airborne precautions (special rooms and respirators), and influenza is managed mainly with droplet precautions (a mask and other barriers when within close proximity). So pink eye fits the contact precautions scenario because its transmission is primarily by direct contact with contaminated secretions.