What is the purpose of droplet precautions?

The purpose of droplet precautions is specifically to protect against pathogens that are expelled in large droplets when a person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. These droplets can travel short distances, typically up to about six feet, and can land on the mucous membranes of individuals nearby. By implementing droplet precautions, healthcare settings aim to minimize the risk of infection transmission, particularly for diseases that are known to spread through such droplets, such as influenza or COVID-19.

Droplet precautions typically involve wearing masks when in close proximity to the infected person and ensuring proper hand hygiene. The focus is on reducing the risk of these larger particles reaching others rather than smaller airborne particles or direct contact with surfaces or individuals, which is the focus of other types of precautions. This understanding clarifies why the answer emphasizing protection against pathogens expelled in large droplets is the correct one.