Which transmission-based precautions should the nurse implement for a child with erythema infectiosum?

In the case of a child with erythema infectiosum, commonly known as fifth disease, the appropriate transmission-based precautions to implement are standard precautions. Erythema infectiosum is primarily caused by parvovirus B19, which spreads predominantly through respiratory secretions, but it is considered to have a low risk of transmission compared to many other viral infections.

Standard precautions are designed to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings and are applicable to all patients. These precautions include hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment when necessary, and safe handling of potentially contaminated materials. Since erythema infectiosum is not highly contagious and does not require special precautions beyond the standard, focusing on good hygiene practices is sufficient for managing the risk of transmission.

If the transmission were more significant or involved other types of pathogens, such as those requiring droplet or airborne precautions, additional measures would be necessary. However, for a child with erythema infectiosum, standard precautions are adequate to minimize risk to others in the healthcare environment.