What is the main theory behind standard precautions in healthcare?

The main theory behind standard precautions in healthcare is that all human blood and body fluids are treated as potentially infectious. This approach is crucial for preventing the spread of infections within healthcare settings, as it acknowledges that many infections can be transmitted through contact with various bodily fluids, not just visible blood. By assuming that all blood and body fluids may contain pathogens, healthcare workers can implement necessary precautions, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), practicing proper hand hygiene, and following safe handling procedures for sharps and waste. This universal approach enhances the safety of both healthcare providers and patients, minimizing the risk of transmission of infectious agents regardless of the known health status of individuals.

The other options would lead to gaps in safety practices: limiting precautions to only visible blood, suggesting that infections are only transmitted from patients to staff, or focusing solely on the sterilization of surgical instruments does not encompass the broader scope of potential infection risks present in healthcare environments.