What should health care professionals do when entering a room that requires airborne precautions?

When entering a room that requires airborne precautions, it is essential to use an N-95 respirator and ensure the room is a negative pressure room because these measures effectively protect healthcare professionals from inhaling infectious agents that are transmitted through the air. Airborne precautions are implemented for diseases like tuberculosis, which can remain suspended in the air for extended periods, posing a risk of transmission even after the infected individual has left the room.

The N-95 respirator is specifically designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including large respiratory droplets and smaller aerosols that may contain pathogens. Additionally, a negative pressure room helps to contain and isolate airborne pathogens, ensuring that air does not flow from the room into other areas of the health facility, thereby minimizing the risk of spreading infectious diseases to other patients and staff.

Implementing both elements—using an appropriate respirator and having the room maintained under negative pressure—is crucial in maintaining the safety and health of healthcare workers when dealing with potentially infectious environments. This approach aligns with best practices in infection control and prevention, particularly in healthcare settings where vulnerable populations are present.