Which standard precautions should be taken to prevent HAIs?

The most effective standard precautions to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) involve comprehensive practices including hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Hand hygiene is crucial as it significantly reduces the transmission of microorganisms that can cause infections. It includes practices such as handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which are vital before and after patient contact, handling food, and after using the restroom.

Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection, is designed to protect healthcare workers and patients alike from exposure to pathogenic microorganisms. By using PPE appropriately, healthcare workers can create a barrier that minimizes the risk of infection transmission during patient care activities.

Together, hand hygiene and PPE are integral components of infection control protocols in healthcare settings. They contribute to a safer environment for both patients and healthcare staff and are foundational to any infection prevention strategy. In contrast, the other options either do not encompass the necessary breadth of precautions or focus on too narrow an aspect of infection control.