Which action is compliant with OSHA Standards for reducing risks of bloodborne pathogens during a procedure?

Choosing to use standard precautions with all patients aligns seamlessly with OSHA Standards aimed at reducing the risks of bloodborne pathogens. Standard precautions are designed as a comprehensive approach to infection control, which includes treating all human blood and certain body fluids as if they are infectious, regardless of the patient's diagnosis status. This approach helps ensure that healthcare providers minimize the risk of exposure to potentially infectious materials in every patient interaction.

Utilizing standard precautions encompasses various practices such as proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks, and safe handling of sharp instruments. It emphasizes the importance of a consistent practice that protects both the healthcare provider and the patient from infectious diseases.

While wearing gloves, washing hands, and using protective eyewear are vital components of maintaining safety during procedures, they are specific actions rather than an overarching strategy. Therefore, relying solely on these individual measures without the broad application of standard precautions may not fully address the risks posed by bloodborne pathogens. By adopting standard precautions universally, healthcare providers create a safer environment, effectively lowering the transmission risk in all clinical settings.