Why standard precautions for infection control should be maintained at all times?
Sarah Scott
Updated on May 08, 2026
The use of standard precautions aims to minimise, and where possible, eliminate the risk of transmission of infection, particularly those caused by blood borne viruses. Standard precautions apply to all patients regardless of their diagnosis or presumed infection status.
Why is it important to maintain standard precautions at all times?
Standard precautions are meant to reduce the risk of transmission of bloodborne and other pathogens from both recognized and unrecognized sources. They are the basic level of infection control precautions which are to be used, as a minimum, in the care of all patients.Why is it important to maintain infection control?
Infection control prevents or stops the spread of infections in healthcare settings.Why is infection prevention and control important in health and social care?
Infection Prevention and Control is paramount in nursing, it protects both patient and healthcare worker from disease. Without controlling the spread of infection, hospitals would become unsafe to go to or visit which would create huge healthcare problems across society.Why is it of the utmost importance to practice strict infection control protocols with every client?
Infection control is important because it affect clients and personal health and safety. It is top priority & responsibility to prevent illness, disease propagation and legal burden at all time at all cost. Also, poor infection control will jeopardize the owner's state license.Standard & Isolation Precautions Nursing | Infection Control Contact, Droplet, Airborne PPE NCLEX
What are the standard precautions of infection prevention and control?
Standard Precautions
- Hand hygiene.
- Use of personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, masks, eyewear).
- Respiratory hygiene / cough etiquette.
- Sharps safety (engineering and work practice controls).
- Safe injection practices (i.e., aseptic technique for parenteral medications).
- Sterile instruments and devices.