Which intervention should be included in the care plan for a child with varicella?

For a child with varicella (commonly known as chickenpox), initiating airborne precautions is essential because varicella is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the air via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with the lesions. By implementing airborne precautions, healthcare providers ensure that the environment is controlled to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to other patients, visitors, and staff, especially those who are immunocompromised or have not had varicella.

Maintaining appropriate isolation practices, such as airborne precautions, is a critical infection control measure in healthcare settings. This approach not only protects other individuals but also allows for appropriate management of the child’s symptoms while minimizing the risk of complications associated with varicella, such as secondary infections or viral pneumonia.

In contrast, the other interventions listed would not be appropriate for the care of a child with varicella. For example, maintaining room temperature at 80°F does not specifically address the management of varicella or the comfort of the child, while preparing for a lumbar puncture is not indicated unless there are specific complications that warrant such an invasive procedure. Additionally, administering aspirin for a high temperature is contraindicated due to the risk of