A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse provide care for a client who has a Clostridium difficile infection. Which of the following actions by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of proper infection control procedures?

A. Airborne precautions are indicated for infections that are transmitted via small airborne particles, such as tuberculosis, measles, or varicella—not for respiratory failure alone.

B. Protective precautions (also called neutropenic or reverse isolation) are appropriate for a client who has neutropenia, as these precautions minimize exposure to infectious agents due to the client’s compromised immune system.

C. Contact isolation is used for infections that spread via direct or indirect contact, such as MRSA or C. difficile. Empyema, a collection of pus in the pleural space, is not necessarily transmitted by contact alone and typically requires standard precautions unless a specific pathogen is identified.

D. Droplet precautions are indicated for infections spread via large respiratory droplets, such as influenza or pertussis. COPD is a chronic condition and does not require droplet precautions unless the client has a contagious infection.

A. Home health provides nursing care, medication management, and some therapy services in the home, but obtaining durable medical equipment (DME) like a wheelchair typically requires coordination through other resources.

B. Physical therapy focuses on improving mobility, strength, and function but does not generally provide equipment procurement services.

C. Occupational therapy focuses on helping clients perform activities of daily living and adapt their environment, but arranging for equipment such as a wheelchair usually falls outside their direct responsibility.

D. Social services assist with accessing community resources, financial support, and durable medical equipment. Referring the client to social services ensures they receive guidance and assistance in obtaining a wheelchair for safe mobility at home.