What is the practice of assuming all patients are potentially infectious called?

The principle of assuming that all patients may carry infectious agents, regardless of their apparent health status, is best described by the term "standard precautions." This approach is essential in healthcare settings to prevent transmission of infections. Standard precautions combine elements of both universal precautions and body substance isolation strategies, emphasizing the use of barriers (such as gloves, masks, and gown) and hygiene practices to safeguard healthcare providers and patients alike.

Standard precautions apply to all patients in any healthcare setting, regardless of the presumed infectious status, thereby promoting a safe and effective means to manage potential risks. This framework ensures that the potential for infection is minimized through consistent application of these practices, which include hand hygiene, appropriate use of protective equipment, safe handling of sharps, and proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces.

While universal precautions were an earlier concept focusing mainly on blood and certain body fluids, the evolution to standard precautions encompasses a broader range of considerations, aligning with the current guidelines for infection prevention. Consequently, standard precautions represent an integrated approach to infection control and personal protection, forming a crucial foundation in the practice of outdoor emergency care and other medical settings.