What is the appropriate action for the charge nurse regarding a pediatric client with pulmonary tuberculosis if no private room is available?

The appropriate action for the charge nurse in this scenario is to contact the infection control nurse for alternatives. This choice is correct because managing a pediatric client with pulmonary tuberculosis requires strict adherence to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of the disease, especially in a hospital setting where vulnerable populations may be present.

In situations where a private room is not available, it is crucial to seek guidance from an infection control specialist who can assess the situation and provide directives that ensure the safety of all patients and staff. They might suggest alternative measures such as using a designated isolation space or implementing specific precautions that comply with health regulations.

Ensuring proper isolation for a patient with tuberculosis is essential due to the airborne nature of the infection. It is not safe to room a child with an uninfected client, even at a distance, as this does not provide adequate protection against transmission. Placing the tuberculosis patient in any room that has been used for other infectious diseases, such as varicella, is also inappropriate, as it could put other patients at risk. Refusing to admit the pediatric TB client is not a viable option, as it neglects the healthcare responsibility to provide care to patients in need.

Thus, contacting the infection control nurse represents a proactive approach to addressing the issue