Which of the following correctly pairs a transmission-based precaution with when it's used?

• A. Contact precautions for MRSA.
• B. Droplet precautions for measles.
• C. Airborne precautions for influenza.
• D. Contact precautions for TB.

Answer: (A)

Transmission-based precautions are chosen based on how a pathogen spreads from person to person. MRSA is most commonly spread by direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces, so using gloves and a gown to prevent contact with infected wounds, body fluids, or contaminated objects is the most effective way to stop its spread. This is why pairing MRSA with contact precautions is the best match: the precautions directly target the route of transmission—physical contact.

Measles, on the other hand, travels through airborne particles that can linger in the air, so airborne precautions are required to prevent spread, not droplet precautions. Influenza is primarily spread through respiratory droplets produced when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes, so droplet precautions are appropriate rather than airborne. Tuberculosis spreads via airborne particles as well, making airborne precautions the correct approach for TB rather than contact precautions.