What is the main theory of standard precautions?

Standard precautions are taken to protect patients and medical personnel. Each patient needs to be considered a risk at the onset. High-risk category patients and those with known disease are obviously a danger to all, but it is important to realize the same could be true for any patient. This will help to keep all of those involved safe.

Standard precautions include proper hand washing along with the personal protective equipment that should be worn such as gowns, gloves, masks, or goggles. Other precautions relate to the disposal of the patient’s gown and any items used on them like needles.