What are standard precautions in nursing practice?

Standard precautions in nursing practice refer to infection control practices that are applied universally to all patients, regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status. The primary goal of these precautions is to minimize the risk of transmission of infectious agents in healthcare settings. This includes practices such as proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks, safe handling of needles and sharp instruments, and ensuring a clean and safe patient environment.

By applying standard precautions to every patient, healthcare providers establish a baseline level of safety that helps protect both patients and staff from potential infections, thereby controlling the spread of pathogens effectively. This foundational approach is essential in maintaining public health and preventing healthcare-associated infections, as many individuals may carry infectious agents without displaying any visible symptoms.