The Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control Department does not support the use of Protective Isolation. Studies reviewing the efficacy of Protective Isolation vs. routine ward care have shown no benefits in reducing the acquisition of new organisms. Indirect contact transmission via contaminated hands of health care workers is the most common mode of transmission of nosocomial infections.
Airborne transmission can occur over longer distances than can droplet transmission.
Each patient is on Standard Precautions but additional precautions may be added. This mask is not to be worn by the patient.