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Healthcare worker with viral gastroenteritis — DOccMed MCQ

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EasyFitness for WorkHealthcare worker with viral gastroenteritisDOccMed

A healthcare assistant working on an elderly care ward has diarrhoea and vomiting that started during a shift. She feels better the next morning and asks to return because the ward is short staffed. What is the most appropriate advice regarding fitness for work?

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Correct answer: A — Advise exclusion until 48 hours after the last diarrhoea or vomiting episode

Viral gastroenteritis spreads readily in healthcare settings, especially among vulnerable patients. Standard infection control advice is exclusion from work until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased. Gloves and masks do not adequately control the risk if the worker remains infectious. Stool clearance is not routinely needed for simple viral gastroenteritis.

Reference: UKHSA infection prevention guidance; NHS infection control guidance