How should a healthcare worker respond to a patient showing signs of an infectious disease?

When a healthcare worker observes signs of an infectious disease in a patient, isolating the patient and informing the infection control team is critical. This response is appropriate because immediate isolation helps prevent the potential spread of the infectious disease to other patients, staff, and visitors.

Informing the infection control team is essential as they have the knowledge and resources to manage the situation effectively, including determining the type of isolation required and initiating appropriate protocols for examination and treatment. Infection control measures are a vital part of patient safety and public health in healthcare settings, ensuring that containment strategies are put in place swiftly to mitigate any risk of transmission.

In contrast, notifying the patient's family immediately may not address the immediate risk of infection spread. Contacting the patient's primary care physician can be important, but the priority should focus on isolating the patient and controlling the infection. Administering antibiotics before notifying anyone may not be appropriate without confirming the type of infection, as inappropriate use can lead to resistance and may not address the specific causative agent of the disease. Therefore, the best practice involves immediate action to protect others while ensuring proper medical oversight.