Is cleaning and disinfection part of standard precautions?

Cleaning and disinfection are indeed integral components of standard precautions in healthcare settings. Standard precautions are designed to prevent the transmission of infections from both recognized and unrecognized sources. They apply to all patients, regardless of their diagnosis or infection status, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean environment to safeguard the health of both patients and healthcare workers.

Cleaning refers to the physical removal of dirt and debris from surfaces, while disinfection involves the use of chemical agents to eliminate pathogens that may be present. By incorporating these practices into standard precautions, healthcare facilities ensure that they manage contamination risks effectively, thus promoting safer interactions and procedures.

The other options present restrictions that do not align with the principles of standard precautions. For example, stating that cleaning and disinfection are only necessary for surgical procedures or limited to outpatient settings misrepresents the comprehensive nature of standard precautions, which should be uniformly applied across all healthcare scenarios.