What type of isolation is used for patients with airborne infections?

Airborne precaution isolation is specifically designed for patients who are known or suspected to have infections that can be transmitted through the air via droplets smaller than 5 microns. These infectious agents can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and be inhaled by others.

This type of isolation requires the use of specially designed air filtration systems, such as negative pressure rooms, to prevent the spread of the pathogen to other areas. Health care workers and visitors are also required to wear appropriate N95 respirators or other similar protective masks to reduce the risk of inhaling infectious particles.

Other types of isolation, such as contact precaution isolation or droplet precaution isolation, focus on different modes of transmission and do not provide the specific protective measures necessary for airborne pathogens. Similarly, standard precaution isolation applies broadly to all patients regardless of their infection status but does not address the unique needs for airborne infections.