Which practice is part of Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette?

• A. Always wear a mask regardless of symptoms
• B. Cover mouth and nose and wash hands after coughing
• C. Use a toothbrush after coughing
• D. Avoid tissues

Answer: (B)

Preventing the spread of respiratory infections is the main idea here. Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette emphasizes actions taken when coughing or sneezing to limit droplet spread and surface contamination. The best choice—covering the mouth and nose and washing hands after coughing—directly interrupts transmission: a cough or sneeze is contained, and any germs on the hands are removed so they don’t reach the infant or surfaces you touch.

Wearing a mask all the time isn’t a universal rule for cough etiquette; masks are used in specific situations, especially when symptoms are present or in high-risk settings. Using a toothbrush after coughing isn’t relevant to stopping droplet spread and doesn’t fit the etiquette. Avoiding tissues contradicts the advised practice of using a tissue or elbow to cover the cough and then disposing of the tissue, followed by hand hygiene. In clinical and caregiving contexts, these hand hygiene and containment steps are the foundational behaviors to reduce transmission.