What is the principle of 'universal precautions' in infection control?

• A. Only treating infectious patients with extra care
• B. Using personal protection equipment only for known infections
• C. Treating all human blood and bodily fluids as potentially infectious
• D. Only applying precautions during outbreaks

Answer: (C)

The principle of 'universal precautions' in infection control is based on the approach of treating all human blood and bodily fluids as if they are potentially infectious, regardless of the known status of the patient. This approach helps to prevent exposure to various pathogens that can be transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, including those that may not yet show symptoms or that go unrecognized due to lack of testing. By adopting universal precautions, healthcare providers create a safer environment for both patients and staff, minimizing the risk of transmission of infectious diseases.

This concept emphasizes the importance of consistent protective measures, such as the use of gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection, during all patient interactions that may involve contact with blood or bodily fluids. It helps ensure that healthcare providers are prepared and protected regardless of the situation, contributing to overall infection control in medical settings.

In contrast, other options suggest a more selective approach, which could lead to a false sense of security and potential exposure risks. For instance, only treating infectious patients with extra care or applying precautions only during outbreaks could neglect the fact that many infections can be asymptomatic or unknown, thereby increasing the likelihood of transmission if universal precautions are not consistently applied.