Article Sections

Introduction

Isolation precautions are infection control measures used to prevent the spread of infectious agents in healthcare settings.  These precautions are categorized based on the mode of transmission and include standard precautions, contact precautions, droplet precautions, and airborne precautions.

Standard precautions

Overview 

Standard precautions are the most basic level of infection control that should be used in the care of all patients, regardless of their infection status.  These precautions are designed to protect healthcare workers and prevent the spread of infections within healthcare facilities.

Key components
  • Hand hygiene:  Perform before and after patient contact and after removing gloves.  Alcohol-based hand rubs are preferred unless hands are visibly soiled.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE):  Wear gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection depending on the potential exposure (eg, blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions).

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