Standard Precautions
- Health & Life Sciences -
Nursing & Allied Health Dictionary
Definition
An infection prevention concept defining practices used to reduce transmission risk and prevent healthcare-associated infections. It governs hygiene, barrier use, environmental controls, device care, and monitoring processes applied in clinical settings. It does not eliminate infection risk and requires consistent implementation and adherence to documented criteria.
Standard Precautions
Health & Life Sciences Dictionary
Definition
Baseline infection‑prevention measures applied to all patient care encounters, founded on the assumption that blood, body fluids, secretions (except sweat), non‑intact skin and mucous membranes may contain transmissible pathogens; core elements include hand hygiene and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment according to anticipated exposure.