During triage of an infant presenting to the emergency department, which finding requires isolation?

When triaging an infant in the emergency department, the presence of a purpuric rash is particularly significant and warrants isolation. A purpuric rash, characterized by purple spots that do not blanch when pressure is applied, can be indicative of serious conditions such as meningococcemia or other bacterial infections that can be highly contagious and potentially life-threatening.

Isolation is crucial in this situation as it helps prevent the spread of any infectious agent that might be the cause of the purpuric rash to other patients and healthcare staff. Early identification and isolation of potentially contagious conditions are essential components of infection control practices in the emergency setting.

While a fever above 100°F, a runny nose, and coughing can all indicate various illnesses, they do not necessarily pose the same immediate risk regarding contagion as a purpuric rash does. Therefore, the presence of a purpuric rash is the determining factor that necessitates isolation during the triage process.