A nurse is caring for a client who has methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in an abdominal wound. The nurse prepares to enter the room to check the client's pulse. What personal protective equipment (PPE) should the nurse wear?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct answer because a skin infection is not transmitted by airborne droplets. A skin infection is usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites that invade the skin and cause inflammation, redness, itching, or pus. A skin infection can be contagious by direct contact with the infected area or by sharing personal items, such as towels, clothing, or razors. The client with a skin infection should be placed in isolation for contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and gowns and using disposable equipment.

Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because a fever with cough can be a sign of a respiratory infection that is transmitted by airborne droplets. A respiratory infection is caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi that infect the lungs, throat, or nose and cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. A respiratory infection can be contagious by inhaling the tiny droplets that are released when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The client with a respiratory infection should be placed in isolation for airborne precautions, which involve wearing a respirator mask and placing the client in a negative pressure room.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because a rash is not transmitted by airborne droplets. A rash is a change in the color, texture, or appearance of the skin that can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, infections, medications, or injuries. A rash can be contagious by direct contact with the affected skin or by sharing personal items, such as clothing, bedding, or sports equipment. The client with a rash should be placed in isolation for contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and gowns and using disposable equipment.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because heart palpitations are not transmitted by airborne droplets. Heart palpitations are the sensation of having a fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat that can be caused by various factors, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, nicotine, or heart conditions. Heart palpitations are not contagious and do not require isolation. The client with heart palpitations should be evaluated for the underlying cause and treated accordingly.

Choice A reason: Psoriasis is a skin abnormality that causes patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales, usually on the elbows, knees, scalp, lower back, or genitals. Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune condition that affects the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis can cause itching, burning, pain, or bleeding.

Choice B reason: Rosacea is a skin abnormality that causes redness, flushing, swelling, or pimples, usually on the face, especially the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory, vascular condition that affects the blood vessels and sebaceous glands of the skin. Rosacea can cause sensitivity, stinging, or dryness.

Choice C reason: Scabies is a skin abnormality that causes small, red bumps, blisters, or burrows, usually on the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, or genitals. Scabies is a contagious, parasitic infection that is caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs. Scabies can cause intense itching, especially at night.

Choice D reason: Stasis dermatitis is a skin abnormality that causes swelling, redness, scaling, or ulcers, usually on the lower legs or ankles. Stasis dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory condition that results from poor blood circulation in the veins of the legs, causing fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues. Stasis dermatitis can cause pain, itching, or infection.