An infection control nurse is teaching a class about the transmission of infectious agents. The nurse should include that which of the following diseases is transmitted via airborne transmission? (Select All that Apply.)

Choice A Reason: Autoimmune disorder affecting the bones

Osteoporosis is not an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorders involve the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, which is not the case with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is primarily characterized by a decrease in bone density and mass, leading to fragile bones.

Choice B Reason: Buildup of inflammation in the joints

While inflammation can affect bone health, osteoporosis is not primarily caused by inflammation in the joints. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis involve joint inflammation, but osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density and strength, not joint inflammation.

Choice C Reason: Increase in calcium levels in the blood

An increase in calcium levels in the blood is not a characteristic of osteoporosis. In fact, osteoporosis often involves a decrease in bone calcium content, leading to weaker bones. Hypercalcemia, or high calcium levels in the blood, is associated with other conditions such as hyperparathyroidism.

Choice D Reason: Bone loss in the cortical and cancellous bones

This is the correct description of the pathophysiology of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis involves the loss of bone density in both the cortical (hard outer layer) and cancellous (spongy inner layer) bones. This loss leads to bones becoming brittle and more susceptible to fractures.

Choice A Reason:

Removing the protective gown before removing gloves is incorrect. The correct procedure is to remove gloves first, followed by the gown, to prevent contamination from the gown to the hands.

Choice B Reason:

Using an electronic thermometer is not recommended for clients with Clostridium difficile. Disposable thermometers or dedicated equipment should be used to prevent cross-contamination.

Choice C Reason:

This is the correct answer. The protective gown should be removed before leaving the client’s room to prevent the spread of Clostridium difficile spores to other areas of the healthcare facility. Proper removal and disposal of PPE are crucial in infection control.

Choice D Reason:

Shaking bed linens is incorrect as it can aerosolize Clostridium difficile spores, increasing the risk of spreading the infection. Linens should be carefully handled and placed in a linen bag without shaking.