A nurse is changing the bed linen for a client who is on contact precautions. Which of the following personal protective equipment should the nurse wear?

A. Clean drinking water is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases, which are transmitted through contaminated water sources (indirect transmission). It does not directly address diseases transmitted from person to person (direct transmission).
B. Proper sanitation practices, such as hand hygiene, proper disposal of waste, and sanitation of living environments, can prevent the spread of diseases transmitted through direct contact (e.g., fecal-oral route, respiratory droplets). Effective sanitation reduces the contamination of surfaces and objects that can harbor infectious agents, thereby interrupting direct transmission routes.
C. Pest control primarily targets diseases transmitted by vectors (such as mosquitoes, ticks, rodents) and is important for preventing diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease. While vector control is essential for preventing these diseases, it does not directly address diseases transmitted directly from person to person.
D. Isolation involves separating individuals who are infected or suspected of being infected from others to prevent the spread of disease. Isolation measures are crucial for controlling diseases that are highly contagious and spread through direct contact (e.g., airborne transmission, close personal contact). By isolating infected individuals, the nurse can effectively prevent direct transmission within the community.

A. An inguinal hernia typically does not directly contribute to an increased risk of falls. It is a condition where tissues, such as part of the intestine, protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. While it may require caution with certain movements or heavy lifting to prevent exacerbation, it is not typically associated with balance or mobility issues that would increase fall risk.
B. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include nervousness, tremors, rapid heart rate (palpitations), and muscle weakness. While muscle weakness could potentially contribute to an increased fall risk, it's not typically a primary factor unless the weakness is severe or affecting lower extremity strength significantly.
C. Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. While it is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, it does not directly increase the risk of falls.
D. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including muscle weakness, coordination problems, and balance issues. These neurological impairments significantly increase the risk of falls due to impaired mobility and balance control.