Isolation Precautions in Pediatric Emergency Departments
in: Isolation Methods in the Emergency Department, NOVA Publications , pp.71-80, 2026
- Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.52305/shbg6873_8
- Publisher: NOVA Publications
- Page Numbers: pp.71-80
- Keywords: isolation precautions, pediatric emergency departments, standard precautions, transmission-based precautions
- Karadeniz Technical University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Isolation precautions in pediatric emergency departments are essential for preventing the spread of infections. Due to high patient volumes and rapid turnover, emergency departments face significant infection control challenges. This section outlines standard and transmission-based precautions recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC), which should be implemented in waiting areas, patient care settings, and during hospitalization. Standard precautions include hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and safe injection practices, while additional measures are necessary for contact, droplet, and airborne transmission. The importance of environmental cleaning and disinfection in preventing multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) transmission is also highlighted. Despite challenges in implementation, early identification of infectious diseases, staff education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strict protocol adherence remain crucial for improving infection control in pediatric emergency settings.