Saunders Respiratory Practice

Which practice is important for tuberculosis clients to prevent infection transmission at home?

1. Sharing utensils with family.

2. "I will cover my mouth when I cough."

3. "I won't need to clean the house often."

4. Only staying in one room.

The correct answer is: "I will cover my mouth when I cough."

The importance of covering the mouth when coughing in tuberculosis clients lies in the fundamental principle of reducing the risk of airborne transmission. Tuberculosis (TB) is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. By making a conscious effort to cover the mouth, either with a tissue or the inside of the elbow, the patient can significantly decrease the chance of releasing infectious droplets into the air. This practice is essential, especially in a home environment where close contact with family members can facilitate the spread of the infection. Other practices mentioned, such as staying in one room or minimizing house cleaning, do not actively contribute to reducing infection transmission. In fact, maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good ventilation are critical components of infection control. Sharing utensils could further increase the risk of spreading TB, as it does not address the primary method of transmission, which is respiratory in nature. Therefore, the practice of covering the mouth when coughing plays a direct role in protecting others and is an essential guideline for tuberculosis clients to follow at home.