What does the term "universal precautions" refer to in health and safety practice?

The term "universal precautions" refers to protective practices that are applied consistently and without exception, regardless of whether there is a suspicion of infection. This approach is based on the premise that any individual could potentially harbor an infectious disease, thereby necessitating a standard set of precautions to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens and other infectious agents.

By implementing these consistent practices, healthcare professionals ensure a safer environment for both themselves and patients. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe disposal of sharps, and proper hand hygiene among other measures. The main intent is to minimize the risk of contamination and protect all individuals involved in the healthcare process.