What are isolation precautions primarily used for in healthcare settings?

Isolation precautions are primarily implemented in healthcare settings to decrease the transmission of pathogens. These measures are vital for protecting both healthcare personnel and patients, especially those who may be immunocompromised or at high risk for infection. Isolation precautions are designed to separate individuals who are known to be infected or colonized with infectious agents from those who are healthy to prevent the spread of these pathogens.

Effective isolation practices include using personal protective equipment (PPE), adhering to hand hygiene protocols, and implementing specific protocols tailored to the type of transmission, whether it be airborne, droplet, or contact. By mitigating the risk of exposure to infectious agents, these precautions are crucial in controlling outbreaks, maintaining patient safety, and ensuring the overall health of the healthcare environment.