What are universal precautions?

Universal precautions are infection control practices that help prevent the transmission of pathogens (disease-causing microorganisms) from one person to another in healthcare settings. They are designed to protect both healthcare workers and patients from exposure to potentially infectious materials, such as blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions, and non-intact skin.

The elements of universal precautions include:

1. Hand hygiene: Washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is essential for preventing the transmission of pathogens. Hands should be washed before and after touching a patient, before and after performing a procedure, and after touching any potentially contaminated surfaces.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is used to protect the healthcare worker's skin, mucous membranes, and clothing from exposure to infectious materials. PPE may include gloves, gowns, masks, eye protection, and shoe covers.

3. Safe handling of sharps: Sharps, such as needles and scalpels, can easily cause cuts and punctures, which can transmit bloodborne pathogens. To prevent this, sharps should be handled with care, disposed of in puncture-resistant containers, and never recapped or bent.

4. Environmental cleaning and disinfection: Frequently touched surfaces, such as countertops, doorknobs, and equipment, should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Spills of potentially infectious materials should be cleaned up immediately and appropriately disinfected.

5. Respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette: Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing can help prevent the spread of respiratory infections. Tissues should be disposed of properly after use.

6. Safe injection practices: Using single-use needles and syringes and following proper injection techniques can help prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens through injection-related injuries.

7. Proper handling and disposal of waste: Infectious waste should be segregated and disposed of in accordance with local regulations to minimize the risk of exposure to hazardous materials.

Universal precautions should be followed consistently and diligently in all healthcare settings to create a safer environment for both patients and healthcare workers and reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).