SARS Infection Control and Exposure Management (CDC)

Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette Strategy for Health Care Facilities

Current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for SARS preparedness in healthcare facilities includes implementing a respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette strategy to minimize transmission of respiratory diseases (including common infections such as influenza and other respiratory viruses, pertussis, tuberculosis and SARS) in patient care settings.

Respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette

To contain respiratory secretions, all persons with signs and symptoms of a respiratory infection, regardless of presumed cause, should be instructed to:

Healthcare facilities should ensure the availability of materials for adhering to respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette in waiting areas for patients and visitors:

• Provide tissues and no-touch receptacles for used tissue disposal
• Provide conveniently located dispensers of alcohol-based hand rub
• Provide soap and disposable towels for hand washing where sinks are available

Masking and separation of persons with symptoms of respiratory infection

• During periods of increased respiratory infection in the community, offer masks to persons who are coughing.
  • Either procedure masks (i.e., with ear loops) or surgical masks (i.e., with ties) may be used to contain respiratory secretions; respirators are not necessary.
• Encourage coughing persons to sit at least 3 feet away from others in common waiting areas. Some facilities may wish to institute this recommendation year-round.

Droplet precautions

Healthcare workers should practice Droplet Precautions (i.e., wear a surgical or procedure mask for close contact), in addition to Standard Precautions, when examining a patient with symptoms of a respiratory infection. Droplet Precautions should be maintained until it is determined that they are no longer needed.

Additional information:

• Respiratory Etiquette protocols translated into foreign languages produced by the Washington State Dept. of Health.
• Infection Control in Healthcare, Home, and Community Settings (CDC Guidance Document)