Universal precautions
Universal precautions
Universal precautions (/juːˈnɪvɜːrsəl prɪˈkɔːʃənz/) refer to a set of infection control practices used to prevent transmission of diseases that can be acquired by contact with blood, body fluids, non-intact skin (including rashes), and mucous membranes. These measures are to be used when providing care for all individuals, whether or not they appear infectious or symptomatic.
Etymology
The term "universal precautions" was first used in the context of HIV/AIDS policy, where it was seen as a more inclusive term than "body substance isolation" and "blood and body fluid precautions", which were used in the 1980s. The term emphasizes that the same precautions must be taken with all patients, regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status.
Related terms
- Body substance isolation: An infection control technique that assumes all body fluids are potentially infectious.
- Standard precautions: A group of infection prevention practices that apply to all patients, regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status, in any setting in which healthcare is delivered.
- Personal protective equipment: Protective gear designed to safeguard the health of workers by minimizing exposure to a biological agent.
- Bloodborne diseases: Diseases that can be spread through contamination by blood and other body fluids.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Universal precautions
- Wikipedia's article - Universal precautions
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