What do transmission-based precautions involve?

Transmission-based precautions are specifically designed to prevent the spread of infections that are known to be contagious. These precautions are implemented in addition to standard precautions, which are the basic level of infection control applied to all patients regardless of their infection status. When a patient is identified as having a particular infection that poses a risk of transmission, additional precautions must be taken to protect healthcare workers, other patients, and visitors.

These additional measures may include the use of specific types of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gowns, masks, or face shields, depending on the mode of transmission of the infection (for instance, airborne, droplet, or contact). Besides PPE, transmission-based precautions may involve other practices such as isolation of the patient, use of dedicated equipment, and enhanced environmental cleaning.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options either describe standard precautions—which are applicable to all patients without consideration of infection status—or suggest a limited focus on PPE or hand hygiene that does not encompass the broader range of measures needed for effective infection control in patients with known infections.