When caring for a patient who is hospitalized with active tuberculosis ( TB ), the nurse observes a family member who is visiting the patient. The nurse will need to intervene if the family member

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A high-efficiency particulate-absorbing (HEPA) mask, rather than a standard surgical mask, should be used when entering the patient's room because the HEPA mask can filter out 100% of small airborne particles. Hand washing before visiting the patient is not necessary, but there is no reason for the nurse to stop the family member from doing this. Because anorexia and weight loss are frequent problems in patients with TB, bringing food from outside the hospital is appropriate. The family member should wash the hands after handling a tissue that the patient has used, but no precautions are necessary when giving the patient an unused tissue.

When Caring for a Patient Who Is Hospitalized with Active