What type of precautions must be taken for a client with disseminated herpes zoster?

For a client with disseminated herpes zoster, the appropriate precautions are airborne and contact precautions. Disseminated herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, becomes reactivated in the body. When the rash is widespread or if the lesions are open and oozing, there is a risk of spreading the virus to others who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine.

Airborne precautions are necessary because the virus can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes, especially when the lesions are extensive. This means that healthcare workers or visitors should wear appropriate respiratory protection, such as an N95 respirator, when entering the room of a patient with disseminated herpes zoster.

Additionally, contact precautions are required to prevent the virus from spreading through direct contact with the rash or contaminated surfaces. This entails wearing gloves and gowns when interacting with the patient or touching items in their environment.

Implementing both airborne and contact precautions helps to protect both the patient and others from the potential spread of the virus, especially in healthcare settings. Proper adherence to these precautions is vital for infection control and to prevent outbreaks, specifically among those who are