When triaging a child with suspected impetigo, what precautions should the nurse implement?

In managing a child with suspected impetigo, implementing the use of a disposable blood pressure cuff is essential because impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that can be easily transmitted through direct contact. Utilizing a disposable cuff helps to minimize the risk of transmission between patients, as these cuffs can be discarded after use, preventing cross-contamination that could occur with reusable equipment.

All other options may not be the most appropriate in this scenario. For instance, droplet precautions are not necessary for impetigo, as the infection primarily spreads through direct skin contact. Setting up a decontamination room is generally reserved for more hazardous situations that involve a risk of exposure to infectious agents on a larger scale. While applying sterile gloves is important for clinical care, in the case of a straightforward skin examination related to impetigo, clean gloves may suffice given the nature of the infection and the context in which care is provided. Therefore, using a disposable blood pressure cuff effectively addresses the central concern of preventing the spread of the infection during triage.