Is it true that universal precautions involve treating all human blood and body fluids as though they are infectious?

Universal precautions are a set of guidelines designed to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens in healthcare and other settings. By treating all human blood and body fluids as potentially infectious, these precautions aim to protect healthcare workers and patients from the risk of exposure to infectious agents, such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

This approach is critical because it eliminates the need for healthcare workers to assess the infection status of each individual they encounter, which may not always be known. Consequently, applying universal precautions consistently reduces the risk of biological hazards and ensures that safety protocols are upheld regardless of perceived risks.

The rationale for adopting universal precautions universally stems from the understanding that infectious diseases can be present in individuals who do not exhibit symptoms or who are unaware of their own infections. Thus, maintaining a high standard of safety through these precautions is essential for both public health and the safety of individuals in healthcare environments.