If a person has a productive cough, what should they be reminded to do?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of hygiene and infection control when a person has a productive cough. Covering the nose and mouth when coughing helps to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain infectious agents, thereby protecting others in the vicinity from potential exposure to pathogens. This simple action is crucial in public health, especially in settings where individuals may be at higher risk for respiratory infections.

While the other options may have their merits in certain contexts, they do not address the immediate need for infection control in the same practical way. Using a face mask can certainly help prevent the spread of droplets but may not always be the most accessible or immediate action for someone simply experiencing a cough. Providing a sputum specimen is usually a task for a healthcare professional rather than a direct action to take for symptom management. Inhaling through the mouth may not be advisable as it does not contribute to managing a cough appropriately and could even exacerbate breathing difficulties or irritation.

Thus, the guidance to cover the nose and mouth aligns perfectly with standard practices for managing respiratory symptoms while prioritizing the health and safety of both the individual and those around them.