Which option correctly pairs a transmission-based precaution with an organism?

Which option correctly pairs a transmission-based precaution with an organism?

• A. Droplet precautions for MRSA
• B. Airborne precautions for influenza
• C. Contact precautions for MRSA
• D. Airborne precautions for MRSA

Answer: (C)

The key idea is matching how a pathogen spreads with the right precautions. MRSA is spread mainly by direct contact with an infected wound or contaminated hands and surfaces. Because of this, the appropriate protection is contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and a gown, practicing strict hand hygiene, and using dedicated equipment when possible. Droplet precautions are for organisms that spread via respiratory droplets, like influenza, so pairing MRSA with droplet precautions isn’t correct. Airborne precautions protect against tiny particles that stay suspended in the air (such as TB or measles), which isn’t how MRSA typically travels.

The key idea is matching how a pathogen spreads with the right precautions. MRSA is spread mainly by direct contact with an infected wound or contaminated hands and surfaces. Because of this, the appropriate protection is contact precautions, which involve wearing gloves and a gown, practicing strict hand hygiene, and using dedicated equipment when possible.

Droplet precautions are for organisms that spread via respiratory droplets, like influenza, so pairing MRSA with droplet precautions isn’t correct. Airborne precautions protect against tiny particles that stay suspended in the air (such as TB or measles), which isn’t how MRSA typically travels.