SARS Infection Control

No SARS in the World

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:

Cover the nose/mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Use tissues to contain respiratory secretions.

Dispose of tissues in the nearest waste receptacle after use.

Perform hand hygiene after contact with respiratory secretions and contaminated objects/materials.

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)