You provide support to a person to bathe and go to the bathroom. Are you required to use universal precautions?

Using universal precautions is a critical part of providing personal care services, such as assisting someone with bathing and using the bathroom. Universal precautions are guidelines designed to prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare settings, which include the use of protective equipment and hygiene practices whenever there is potential exposure to blood and bodily fluids.

If you are providing personal care, there is a likelihood of contact with bodily fluids, which makes adherence to these precautions essential. This includes wearing gloves, practicing proper hand hygiene, and following appropriate cleaning procedures to maintain a safe environment for both the caregiver and the individual receiving care.

Therefore, relying on the idea that universal precautions are not necessary in such intimate care settings underestimates the potential risks involved. Using these precautions is not just a best practice; it’s a fundamental requirement to protect all parties involved from infection and illness.