What do airborne precautions aim to reduce?

Airborne precautions are specifically designed to reduce the risk of transmitting infectious agents that are spread through the air, particularly via small respiratory droplets or airborne particles. These particles can remain suspended in the air for extended periods and can be inhaled by individuals who are not in direct contact with the infected person, making it crucial to implement precautions to limit exposure.

The primary goal of airborne precautions is to minimize the nosocomial transmission of these airborne particles, which can come from various sources, including patients with respiratory infections such as tuberculosis, measles, or chickenpox. Effective measures typically include the use of specialized masks (like N95 respirators), proper ventilation, and isolating patients in negative pressure rooms to prevent the spread of pathogens to others in healthcare settings.

While factors like bloodborne pathogens and contaminated equipment are important in infection control, they are addressed through other specific precautions and safety protocols rather than through airborne precautions. Similarly, while respiratory diseases are commonly associated with airborne transmission, the precautions encompass a broader scope within the context of transmission methods rather than being limited only to respiratory illnesses.