What practice is emphasized under Universal Precautions?

The emphasis on hand hygiene under Universal Precautions is critical because it is the most effective method for preventing the transmission of infections in a clinical setting. Universal Precautions aim to treat all blood and bodily fluids as if they are potentially infectious, thereby minimizing the risk of spreading pathogens. Proper hand hygiene, which includes thorough washing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, significantly reduces the likelihood of healthcare-associated infections. By prioritizing hand hygiene, healthcare workers can effectively protect themselves and their patients from the transmission of various infectious diseases.

In contrast, while isolation techniques, environmental cleaning, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) are important practices in infection control, they are not as foundational as hand hygiene, which serves as the primary line of defense in preventing the spread of infections.