Which type of respiratory protection is appropriate for staff dealing with a client recently exposed to smallpox?

The choice of an N95 particulate respirator as the appropriate respiratory protection for staff dealing with a client recently exposed to smallpox is based on the nature of the virus and the transmission dynamics associated with it. Smallpox is caused by the variola virus, which is transmitted via respiratory droplets and aerosols.

An N95 respirator is designed to filter airborne particles and provide a tight facial fit, ensuring that at least 95% of airborne particles, including those as small as 0.3 microns, are filtered out. This level of filtration is crucial in a situation where there is potential for Aerosolization of the virus, as it significantly reduces the risk of inhaling infectious agents.

Other options such as double-layered surgical masks and surgical masks with eye shields do not provide the same level of protection against airborne pathogens. Surgical masks are primarily designed to protect the environment from droplets generated by the wearer rather than filtering out airborne contaminants effectively. While they might help reduce the risk of droplet transmission, they do not offer sufficient protection against smallpox, which can be aerosolized and remain infectious in the air.

Lastly, stating that no respiratory protection is needed does not align with current guidelines and protocols for managing highly infectious diseases, particularly those like