A nurse is assisting in the admission of a client who has measles. Which of the following isolation precautions should the nurse initiate?

Choice A rationale:
Decreased white blood cells (WBCs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) would not support the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. In bacterial meningitis, the presence of bacteria triggers an inflammatory response, leading to an increase in WBCs in the CSF (pleocytosis).
Choice B rationale:
Elevated glucose levels in CSF would actually be more consistent with viral rather than bacterial meningitis. In bacterial meningitis, glucose levels are typically decreased due to the high metabolic demands of bacteria on the glucose present in the CSF.
Choice C rationale:
Elevated total protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is indicative of inflammation and disruption of the blood-brain barrier. Bacterial meningitis causes an intense inflammatory response, leading to an increase in total protein in the CSF.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased pressure in the CSF would not be a characteristic finding in bacterial meningitis. In fact, bacterial meningitis often leads to an increase in CSF pressure due to the inflammation and accumulation of inflammatory cells and proteins.

Choice A rationale:
Contact precautions are indicated when the client has a condition that can be easily transmitted through direct contact with the client or their environment. Measles, which is an airborne disease, requires more stringent precautions due to its mode of transmission.
Choice B rationale:
The correct choice. Measles is spread through airborne particles, making airborne precautions necessary. These precautions include placing the client in a negative pressure room, wearing appropriate respiratory protection (e.g., N95 mask), and ensuring that healthcare providers are properly protected from inhaling infectious particles.
Choice C rationale:
A protective environment is a specialized form of isolation used for clients with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing stem cell transplants. It involves maintaining a sterile environment to prevent the introduction of pathogens. This level of precautions is not applicable to clients with measles.
Choice D rationale:
Droplet precautions are appropriate for diseases that are transmitted through respiratory droplets generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking. Measles, however, is transmitted through smaller airborne particles that can remain suspended in the air for longer periods, making airborne precautions the most suitable choice.