What is the purpose of transmission-based precautions?

• A. To replace standard precautions for all patients
• B. To prevent the spread of specific infections (contact, droplet, airborne) beyond standard precautions
• C. To isolate all residents permanently
• D. To require PPE only for visitors

Answer: (B)

Transmission-based precautions are additional measures used when a patient has a known or suspected infection that could spread to others. They work alongside standard precautions and are chosen based on how the infection is transmitted—by contact, droplets, or airborne routes. The goal is to prevent the infection from spreading beyond what standard precautions already protect, keeping other patients, staff, and visitors safe. They aren’t a blanket replacement for standard precautions for every patient, they aren’t permanent isolation for all residents, and PPE is used as needed for the specific situation, not only for visitors.