Airborne Respirator Precautions

You or your loved one is in Airborne Respirator Precautions.  These precautions prevent the spread of infection between patients in hospitals.  This type of infection is spread by breathing tiny droplets in the air that carry germs.

 

A BLUE/PINK sign saying "Airborne Precautions" is outside the room letting staff, family, and visitors know what they can do to help keep patients safe.

As patient, family, or visitor you must help by:

• Checking with the nurse before entering the room for the first time

• Keeping the door to the room closed

• Cleaning hands when you enter and leave the room

• Wearing a mask unless otherwise instructed by hospital staff

• Asking doctors and staff to wash or sanitize their hands as they enter and leave the room even if they are using gloves

• Limiting visitors to close contacts only

You will see doctors and staff doing the following:

Hand Hygiene

• Cleaning hands before and after caring for the patient.

Gloves, Gowns, Masks, and Goggles

• They must wear a special mask when entering the room.

• Might wear gloves, gown, and goggles while in the room and will remove them on leaving.

Transportation

• If the patient needs to go out of the room for a test, staff will clean their hands and help the patient put on a mask.

If you have any additional questions about Airborne Respirator Precautions, ask your nurse