What does "universal precautions" pertain to in a health context?

The concept of "universal precautions" is fundamentally linked to standard health and safety procedures, particularly in the context of infection control and prevention in healthcare settings. This approach assumes that all blood and other bodily fluids are potentially infectious, regardless of the patient's known status. Therefore, it emphasizes the importance of consistently applying specific protocols—such as wearing gloves, masks, and eye protection—to protect both healthcare workers and patients from the transmission of pathogens. This comprehensive strategy helps to minimize the risk of infection in various healthcare environments, enhancing overall safety for everyone involved.