Universal precautions are protocols and guidelines that healthcare providers follow to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. These precautions are based on the assumption that every patient could potentially be carrying a transmissible disease, and therefore all healthcare workers must take steps to protect themselves and others during every patient interaction.
By following universal precautions, healthcare workers can reduce the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV and hepatitis B and C, as well as other infectious diseases. This helps to protect both healthcare providers and the public from the spread of these illnesses.
Some common universal precautions include wearing personal protective equipment (such as gloves, masks, and gowns), practicing proper hand hygiene, safely disposing of sharps and biohazardous materials, and following proper protocols for cleaning and disinfecting medical equipment and surfaces.
Overall, universal precautions play a vital role in maintaining a safe and healthy healthcare environment for both providers and patients.
Universal precautions are designed to protect
, health care
, and the public.
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