A client with disseminated herpes zoster requires PPE prior to assessment. Which equipment is appropriate?

• A. Surgical face mask
• B. N95 respirator, gown, and gloves
• C. Goggles and shoe covers
• D. Surgical mask, gown, and gloves

Answer: (B)

Disseminated herpes zoster can spread through airborne particles, so protecting the healthcare worker with airborne precautions is essential before assessing the client. The key piece is a respirator that filters airborne particles—an N95—because it offers stronger protection than a surgical mask. Pairing the N95 with a gown and gloves blocks transmission from both contaminated surfaces or vesicular lesions (via contact) and inhalation of airborne virus. Eye protection is important in situations with splash or droplet risk, but the core protective needs for airborne transmission are met with the N95 plus gown and gloves. The other options either lack true respiratory protection or address only contact precautions, which are not sufficient for disseminated herpes zoster.