Differentiate standard precautions from transmission-based precautions.

• A. Transmission-based precautions apply to all patients; standard precautions are added for known or suspected infections (contact, droplet, airborne)
• B. They are the same
• C. Standard precautions apply to all patients; transmission-based precautions are added for known or suspected infections (contact, droplet, airborne)
• D. Transmission-based precautions never apply in hospital settings

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that standard precautions are the baseline approach used for every patient, while transmission-based precautions are additional measures added when there is known or suspected infection. Standard precautions cover actions like hand hygiene, glove use when there is contact with blood or body fluids, PPE as indicated, safe handling of needles and equipment, environmental cleaning, and respiratory hygiene. They ensure a safe default for all patient care.

Transmission-based precautions are layered on when a patient is known or suspected to have an infectious agent, and the type depends on how the organism spreads. For infections spread by direct or indirect contact, use a gown and gloves and, when possible, dedicate or disinfect equipment and place the patient in a private room. For infections spread through droplets, use a mask (and eye protection if splashes are possible) within close proximity, limit patient movement, and place the patient in a private room or cohort as needed. For infections spread via the airborne route, use an appropriately fitted respirator (like an N95 or higher) and place the patient in a negative-pressure room, with careful control of room access.

So, standard precautions apply to all patients, and transmission-based precautions are added for known or suspected infections. The other statements are inconsistent with this approach and misstate when and how transmission-based precautions are used.