What is the practice of treating all cases as if they were infectious called?

The concept of treating all cases as if they were infectious is referred to as universal precautions. This approach emphasizes that all blood and certain body fluids should be treated as though they carry infectious agents, regardless of the perceived risk involved in any specific case. It is rooted in the understanding that many communicable diseases can be present without visible symptoms, making it essential for healthcare and mortuary professionals to perform procedures with a high standard of safety.

Universal precautions are designed to minimize the risk of transmission of pathogens, particularly in environments where exposure to blood or body fluids is likely. By implementing these precautions, professionals can safeguard not only their health but also protect others they may come into contact with during their duties. This practice includes consistent use of gloves, masks, and other barriers regardless of a patient's known medical history or appearance.

Other options, while they may touch on safety measures in healthcare settings, do not adequately encapsulate the principle of universally treating every case as potentially infectious. Standard precautions, for example, build upon universal precautions but also include measures for personal hygiene and the safe handling of equipment and linens, making them broader but not specifically aimed at the infectious nature of all cases.