According to CDC and APIC guidelines, a surgical mask is required when performing lumbar punctures to prevent bacterial contamination (e.g., meningitis caused by droplet transmission of oral flora).
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect?
* A. Personal eyeglasses should be worn during suctioning - Incorrect because eyeglasses do not provide adequate eye protection. Goggles or face shields should be used.
* C. Gloves should be worn when handling or touching a cardiac monitor that has been disinfected
- Not necessary unless recontamination is suspected.
* D. Eye protection should be worn when providing patient care after unprotected exposure - Eye protection should be used before exposure, not just after.
CBIC Infection Control Reference
APIC states that surgical masks must be worn for procedures such as lumbar puncture to reduce infection risk.