Which of the following describes a strict form of infection control based on the assumption that all blood and body fluids are infected?

Standard precautions describe a strict form of infection control that operates under the principle that all blood and body fluids from any patient should be treated as potentially infectious. This approach is crucial in healthcare settings because it helps safeguard not only healthcare providers but also patients from infection and transmission of diseases. By applying standard precautions, providers utilize protective measures, such as wearing gloves, masks, and gowns when necessary, regardless of the known infectious status of the patient.

This practice is essential in environments where individuals may come into contact with blood or bodily fluids, as it minimizes the risk of contamination and transmission. It encompasses a variety of practices including hand hygiene, safe needle practices, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). By employing standard precautions universally, it eliminates assumptions about a patient's health status and ensures that all necessary precautions are in place to prevent infection. This is particularly relevant in emergency and combat medic scenarios where rapid assessments of patients' conditions may not be possible.