What type of precautions should be taken for a client with influenza?

The correct answer focuses on the need for droplet precautions when caring for a client with influenza. Influenza is primarily spread through respiratory droplets that are expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Therefore, precautions are necessary to minimize the risk of transmission to healthcare providers and other patients.

When implementing droplet precautions, healthcare workers are advised to wear a surgical mask when entering the room of a patient with influenza. This practice helps to protect against inhaling infectious droplets. Additionally, placing the patient in a private room or maintaining spatial separation from other patients can further reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

While standard precautions are always recommended in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infections, they are not sufficient on their own for specific contagious diseases like influenza. Contact precautions are more suited for infections that spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. Airborne precautions are indicated for diseases that are transmitted through smaller respiratory particles that remain suspended in the air. Influenza does not fall into this category, making droplet precautions the most appropriate choice for managing patients with this illness.