Contact Precautions

Isolation precautions for diseases spread by direct or indirect contact

Definition

Contact precautions are a type of transmission-based isolation used to prevent spread of pathogens transmitted via direct contact with the patient or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces and equipment.

PPE Required

Gloves upon entry
Gown if direct patient contact anticipated
Hand hygiene before donning and after removing PPE

Common Diseases Requiring Contact Precautions

MRSA, VRE, C. difficile, scabies, lice, herpes zoster (disseminated or in immunocompromised hosts), RSV (in pediatrics), multidrug-resistant organisms.

Key Considerations

C. difficile requires SOAP AND WATER handwashing (alcohol-based hand rub does NOT kill spores). Use bleach-based cleaner for environmental disinfection. Private room preferred; if unavailable, cohort patients with same organism.

Nursing Responsibilities

Educate family and visitors; dedicate equipment (BP cuff, stethoscope) to patient when possible. Perform hand hygiene before and after every contact.

NCLEX Relevance

Know PPE: gown + gloves. C. difficile exception: SOAP AND WATER hand hygiene.