The four external methods of protecting the body from infection, as outlined by standard precautions, are hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, cleaning, and appropriate handling and disposal of sharps.
External Protection Methods
These methods are crucial in preventing the transmission of infectious agents in various settings. Each method plays a specific role in breaking the chain of infection.
1. Hand Hygiene
Why is it important? Hand hygiene is the cornerstone of infection control. It involves cleaning your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
- When to perform: Before and after touching a patient, after touching contaminated surfaces, before eating, and after using the restroom.
- How to perform: Rub your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand rub covering all surfaces of your hands.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
What is it? PPE includes items like gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection. They create a barrier between the body and infectious agents.
- When to use: When there's a risk of contact with blood, body fluids, secretions, or excretions, and during procedures that may cause splashes or sprays.
- How to use: Wear gloves when touching contaminated items, wear gowns to protect clothing, use a mask and eye protection if there's a risk of splashes, and always follow the proper order for donning and doffing PPE to avoid contamination.
3. Cleaning
Why is it necessary? Regular cleaning removes dirt, organic material, and microorganisms from surfaces and objects. Disinfecting kills most microorganisms, while sterilizing eliminates all microorganisms.
- What to clean: Regularly clean high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and equipment.
- How to clean: Use appropriate cleaning products and follow the manufacturers' instructions. Disinfectants should be used after cleaning to kill the remaining microorganisms.
4. Appropriate Handling and Disposal of Sharps
What are sharps? Sharps include needles, syringes, lancets, and other items that can puncture the skin.
- Why is it important? Improper handling of sharps can lead to needlestick injuries which can transmit bloodborne pathogens.
- How to dispose: Sharps should be disposed of immediately after use in puncture-resistant containers and never be recapped, bent, or broken by hand.
By diligently following these four external protection methods, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of infection transmission and protect themselves and others.
