Practices and personal protective equipment designed to
prevent healthcare workers from transmitting infections to
themselves or to other patients within healthcare settings
Combines major features of Universal Precautions and Body
Substance Isolation
Based on the principle that all blood, body fluids,
secretions, excretions (except sweat), non-intact skin,
and mucous membranes may contain transmissible infectious
agents
Applies to all patients in all healthcare settings,
regardless of suspected or confirmed infection status
Also applicable when caring for
externally and/or internally contaminated radiation event
victims
Standard precautions provide healthcare workers working
in post-decontamination areas of the hospital
with adequate protection against potential contamination
of themselves and others
NOTE: Some radiological materials are excreted in sweat
Practices most relevant to the care of externally and/or
internally contaminated radiation event victims include
Use of gloves, gown, eye protection or face shield, and
appropriate respiratory protection (based on the
anticipated level of healthcare worker-patient
interaction)
Safe handling of equipment or other items likely to have
been contaminated with body fluids in a manner that
prevents transmission of radiological material to the
healthcare workers or to other patients
Proper application depends on
The nature of the healthcare worker-patient interaction
The extent of anticipated contact with blood, body fluids,
secretions, excretions
Includes education and training on principles and rationale
for recommended practices
Facilitates appropriate decision-making and future
adherence
Standard precautions (plus reverse isolation practices and
procedures) should be used by healthcare workers caring for
neutropenic radiation victims