When admitting a client with rubella, what type of transmission-based precautions should the nurse initiate?

When admitting a client with rubella, the appropriate type of transmission-based precautions to initiate is droplet precautions. Rubella is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This means that any healthcare worker or visitor who is in close contact with the infected person could inhale these droplets and potentially become infected themselves.

Droplet precautions involve wearing a mask when caring for or being in close proximity to the infected individual, ensuring proper hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distance as much as possible. Implementing these precautions effectively minimizes the risk of spreading the virus to others, especially in settings like hospitals where vulnerable populations may be present.

While standard precautions are also essential in any healthcare setting, they are not specific enough to protect against the transmission of rubella. Contact precautions are generally used for infections that are spread through direct physical contact or contaminated surfaces, whereas airborne precautions are applicable to diseases that can be transmitted through tiny airborne particles that remain suspended in the air for longer periods. Understanding the specific transmission method of rubella is key in determining the correct type of precautions to ensure the safety of both clients and healthcare personnel.