What is the purpose of standard precautions in healthcare settings?

The purpose of standard precautions in healthcare settings is primarily to reduce the risk of infection transmission. These precautions are a set of guidelines designed to protect both healthcare workers and patients from the spread of infectious agents. By employing standard precautions, which include practices such as hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe handling of potentially contaminated materials, healthcare providers can minimize the chances of infections being transmitted in various healthcare environments.

While patient comfort, staff workload, and limiting contact may be considerations in healthcare, they do not encompass the primary goal of standard precautions. The focus remains on preventing infection, which is vital for maintaining safety and quality of care in healthcare settings.