When infection is suspected in a PT setting, which precautions should be implemented?

• A. Standard precautions with PPE and hand hygiene; isolate per policy if indicated.
• B. No isolation needed.
• C. Only use hand hygiene.
• D. Mask only.

Answer: (A)

Infection control in a physical therapy setting relies on using standard precautions with every patient, plus isolation when the situation calls for it. Standard precautions include thorough hand hygiene before and after patient contact and wearing appropriate PPE based on what you’re exposed to (gloves for contact with body fluids, a gown if clothing could be soiled, a mask and eye protection when splashes or droplets are possible, and additional protection as needed). They also cover safe handling of specimens, equipment, and a clean environment, along with respiratory hygiene and safe injection practices.

When infection is suspected, isolation is implemented according to policy to limit transmission. This means placing the patient in appropriate precautions (airborne, droplet, or contact) and using the necessary PPE and procedures to prevent spread.

That broader approach is why the best choice isn’t just isolation sometimes, or just hand hygiene, or only a mask. It covers all routes of transmission and ensures protection for both patients and staff.