In the context of airborne infection precautions, which initial action should EMTs take to protect themselves and others?

• A. Provide oxygen with a nonrebreather mask and protect yourself with appropriate respiratory protection
• B. Wait until the hospital confirms infection status
• C. Ignore precautions if the patient is stable
• D. Remove PPE to speed up care

Answer: (A)

In this scenario, the first priority is protecting yourself from airborne pathogens before you touch the patient. You should don an appropriately fitted respirator (N95 or higher), along with eye protection, gown, and gloves, so you’re safeguarded against inhaling infectious aerosols. Once you’re protected, you can proceed with care, such as delivering oxygen with a nonrebreather mask if needed, while continuing to maintain those precautions. Waiting for hospital infection status, ignoring precautions if the patient seems stable, or removing PPE to speed things up would expose you and others to unnecessary risk and are not appropriate actions.