RNPedia PNLE Nursing Practice 4 Test 1 Practice

Which statement accurately reflects isolation precautions for tuberculosis when the patient leaves the room?

The patient should wear a surgical mask when outside the room. The patient should wear an N95 mask outside the room. The patient does not need any mask outside the room. The patient should wear gloves outside the room.

Correct Answer:

The patient should wear a surgical mask when outside the room.

Explanation:

When someone has tuberculosis, the goal is to limit the spread of airborne particles as they move through shared spaces. The best approach for a patient leaving the isolation room is to have them wear a surgical mask. This provides source control—catching droplets expelled by the patient when they cough, sneeze, or even talk—so others in the hallways are less exposed. An N95 mask is the level of protection used by healthcare workers entering the room to protect themselves from inhaling TB bacteria; it’s not worn by the patient. Wearing no mask would miss that source-control step, increasing the chance of transmission. Gloves don’t address airborne spread and aren’t indicated simply for stepping out of the room.

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