Which infection control precaution should a nurse implement for a client with pertussis?

For a client with pertussis, wearing a surgical mask prior to entry is essential due to the highly contagious nature of the disease, which is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Wearing a surgical mask helps to protect healthcare personnel from inhaling infectious droplets and also minimizes the risk of spreading the infection within the healthcare setting. This precaution is particularly important because pertussis can be especially dangerous for vulnerable populations, such as infants and those with compromised immune systems.

While other infection control measures such as providing disposable dishes and maintaining negative air pressure are important for various situations, they are not the primary focus for pertussis management. Placing a patient near the nurse's station does not contribute to infection control and may pose additional risks for exposure to others in the vicinity. Therefore, the correct approach for preventing transmission of pertussis specifically revolves around the use of masks and appropriate respiratory precautions.