Which practice is a core component of standard precautions when handling bodily fluids?

Which practice is a core component of standard precautions when handling bodily fluids?

• A. Use hand hygiene before and after contact and wear appropriate PPE; follow standard precautions
• B. Use hand hygiene only when gloves contaminated
• C. Don gloves only after contact with blood
• D. Wear mask only during sterile procedures

Answer: (D)

Standard precautions rely on two key practices to prevent transmission: clean hands and appropriate protective gear based on what you might touch. Hand hygiene before and after any patient contact is foundational because hands are the main route for transferring organisms. PPE is chosen based on anticipated exposure: gloves for contact with bodily fluids, gowns when clothing could be contaminated, and a mask with eye protection when there’s a risk of splashes or droplets. A rule that masks are needed only during sterile procedures is too narrow; masks protect mucous membranes from respiratory droplets and aerosols in a wider range of situations, not just sterile ones. So the best practice is to perform hand hygiene before and after contact and wear the appropriate PPE to follow standard precautions.

Standard precautions rely on two key practices to prevent transmission: clean hands and appropriate protective gear based on what you might touch. Hand hygiene before and after any patient contact is foundational because hands are the main route for transferring organisms. PPE is chosen based on anticipated exposure: gloves for contact with bodily fluids, gowns when clothing could be contaminated, and a mask with eye protection when there’s a risk of splashes or droplets. A rule that masks are needed only during sterile procedures is too narrow; masks protect mucous membranes from respiratory droplets and aerosols in a wider range of situations, not just sterile ones. So the best practice is to perform hand hygiene before and after contact and wear the appropriate PPE to follow standard precautions.