3 Transmission-Based Precautions
Learn when to add transmission-based isolation measures, how Contact, Droplet, and Airborne Precautions differ, and what to do during patient transport and while test results are pending.
When to use added precautions
are added when a patient is known or suspected to have an infection that spreads by contact, respiratory droplets, or airborne particles. Use them in addition to , and combine types when needed. For example, varicella requires both Airborne and .
When test results are pending, use the facility’s current infection-control guidance. If symptoms indicate a likely transmissible infection, begin appropriate precautions while evaluation continues rather than waiting for laboratory confirmation.
are used when spread may occur through contact with the patient or their environment. Examples include C. difficile diarrhea and a wound with drainage that cannot be contained.
Use a single room when available. Wear a gown and gloves for interactions that may involve the patient or their environment. Use dedicated equipment when possible; clean and disinfect shared equipment. Do not use a patient’s dedicated equipment for another patient without appropriate cleaning and disinfection.
apply to infections such as influenza, pertussis (whooping cough), and meningococcal disease. Wear a mask upon entering the patient’s room or care space. A special air-handling room is generally not required.
For necessary transport, have the patient wear a mask if tolerated and follow respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.
apply to infections such as suspected pulmonary tuberculosis, measles, and chickenpox (varicella). Place the patient in an and keep the door closed. Before entering, staff must wear a fit-tested NIOSH-approved or a higher-level respirator.
For necessary transport, mask the patient if possible. If measles is suspected—for example, when a patient arrives with fever, cough, and a widespread rash—place the patient promptly in an AIIR and use while results are pending.
and transport
Always use alongside . Perform hand hygiene and select gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection according to anticipated exposure.
For , limit transport to what is medically necessary and contain or cover the affected area when possible. Before transport, remove contaminated personal protective equipment and perform hand hygiene; use clean personal protective equipment as needed at the destination. Do not move contaminated equipment between patients without appropriate cleaning and disinfection.
For , mask the patient during necessary transport if tolerated. For , mask the patient for necessary transport if possible.
Choosing respiratory protection
A surgical mask is used for close-range protection from respiratory droplets. It is not a substitute for a fit-tested , which is used to protect the wearer from airborne particles. The required room placement and personal protective equipment depend on the suspected route of transmission.