If you restrain a patient who keeps spitting at you, what is the recommended action?

Choosing to put a surgical mask on a patient who is spitting serves multiple important purposes. Primarily, it helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, as saliva can carry pathogens. In this scenario, the patient’s behavior of spitting presents a potential health risk to the EMT and other personnel.

By applying a surgical mask, you effectively reduce the likelihood of transmission not only to yourself but also to others in the vicinity. This action is also aligned with the principles of infection control in emergency medical situations, where protecting both the healthcare provider and the patient’s wellbeing is paramount.

Additionally, the other options could lead to further complications. Refusing transport could leave the patient without necessary medical care, tightening restraints may escalate the situation rather than subdue the patient, and restraining in a prone position could pose a significant risk of respiratory compromise. Therefore, the most balanced and safe approach in handling a spitting patient involves using a surgical mask to mitigate potential health risks while still providing necessary care.