What is the main purpose of contact precautions in healthcare?

The primary focus of contact precautions in healthcare settings is to prevent the transmission of infectious agents that can be spread through direct contact with patients or contaminated surfaces. This is particularly important in situations where patients may be colonized or infected with multidrug-resistant organisms or infections such as MRSA or C. difficile. Implementing contact precautions typically involves measures such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves and gowns, and ensuring that healthcare workers adhere to strict hand hygiene practices.

By isolating patients who are known or suspected to carry these organisms and minimizing physical contact with them, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the risk of spreading infections to other patients, visitors, and healthcare personnel. This layered strategy is crucial in maintaining a safe environment and controlling the occurrence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Other options do not align with the core intent of contact precautions, which centers on infection control rather than patient mobility, waiting times, or promoting handwashing practices on their own.