You arrive on scene for a 9-year-old female with a severe cough. Her mother states that she has spoken to her pediatrician who believes that the child may have whooping cough and should be taken to the hospital for evaluation. Her mother states that she is unsure if her daughter has had all her immunizations. Which one of the following statements would be most appropriate in the care of this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Whooping cough (pertussis) is highly contagious, so placing a surgical mask on the patient can help prevent the spread of the disease. Option B is incorrect because whooping cough is caused by a bacterium (Bordetella pertussis), not a virus, and patients with the disease are highly contagious. Option C is excessive; while healthcare providers should take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure, full isolation precautions are not necessary. Option D is appropriate, but not the most urgent concern given the presenting complaint.

You Arrive on Scene for a 9-Year-Old Female with a Severe