Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette

These are infection prevention measures designed to limit the transmission of respiratory pathogens spread by droplet or airborne routes. The strategies target primarily patients and individuals accompanying patients to the dental setting who may have undiagnosed respiratory infections but also apply to anyone (including dental health care personnel (DHCP)) with signs and symptoms of illness. They were added to Standard Precautions in 2007 and emphasize two key elements:

1. Implement measures to prevent the spread of respiratory infections from anyone in a health care setting with signs or symptoms.

• Post signs at entrances asking patients with symptoms of respiratory infection to:
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Use tissues and throw them away.
  • Wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer every time you touch your mouth or nose.
• Provide tissues and no-touch receptacles for their disposal.
• Provide resources for performing hand hygiene in or near waiting areas.
• Offer masks to symptomatic patients when they enter the dental setting.
• Provide space and encourage symptomatic patients to sit as far away from others as possible. Facilities may wish to place these patients in a separate area, if available, while waiting for care.

2. Educate DHCP on the importance of prevention measures when examining and caring for patients with signs and symptoms of a respiratory infection.

For more information, including downloadable posters and resources, see CDC’s Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette in Healthcare Settings.