In which of the following situations would universal precautions apply?

In which of the following situations would universal precautions apply?

• A. Caring for healthy individuals
• B. Handling non-infectious materials
• C. Dealing with potentially infectious materials
• D. Performing routine cleaning tasks

Answer: (C)

Universal precautions are a set of guidelines designed to prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens and other infectious materials. These precautions are essential in any situation where there is a possibility of exposure to potentially infectious materials, such as blood, bodily fluids, or other substances that could carry infectious agents. In the context of the given question, dealing with potentially infectious materials mandates the use of universal precautions to ensure safety and minimize the risk of infection. This means wearing gloves, masks, and other protective equipment as necessary to protect both the caregiver and the individual being treated. Other scenarios, such as caring for healthy individuals, handling non-infectious materials, or performing routine cleaning tasks, do not involve the same level of risk for exposure to infectious agents, which is why universal precautions would not be warranted in those cases.

Universal precautions are a set of guidelines designed to prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens and other infectious materials. These precautions are essential in any situation where there is a possibility of exposure to potentially infectious materials, such as blood, bodily fluids, or other substances that could carry infectious agents.

In the context of the given question, dealing with potentially infectious materials mandates the use of universal precautions to ensure safety and minimize the risk of infection. This means wearing gloves, masks, and other protective equipment as necessary to protect both the caregiver and the individual being treated.

Other scenarios, such as caring for healthy individuals, handling non-infectious materials, or performing routine cleaning tasks, do not involve the same level of risk for exposure to infectious agents, which is why universal precautions would not be warranted in those cases.