# An infant is admitted with suspected pertussis. Which precaution should the nurse implement in addition to standard precautions?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=397273&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Standard/Transmission-Based Precautions/Surgical Asepsis  
> category: SIPC

## Question

An infant is admitted with suspected pertussis. Which precaution should the nurse implement in addition to standard precautions?

## Option

1. Airborne precautions with a negative-pressure room.
2. Protective isolation with positive pressure.
3. Droplet precautions with a mask for close contact. **✔ Correct answer**
4. Contact precautions only because pertussis is spread by stool.

**Correct answer: 3**

## Explanation

Pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets, so droplet precautions are used in addition to standard precautions. Airborne or protective isolation is not the usual requirement. Pertussis is not primarily spread by stool.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Pertussis droplet precautions.

Memory Tip
Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.

KR vs US
NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
For Pertussis droplet precautions, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.

Caution
Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.

## Key concepts

- **Pertussis** — A contagious respiratory infection also known as whooping cough.
- **Droplet Precautions** — Precautions used for pathogens spread in larger respiratory droplets.
- **Standard Precautions** — Basic infection prevention practices used for all clients.

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