Universal precautions: An update

Abstract

Universal precautions, the set of work practice recommendations designed to help minimize occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, have been shown to be effective. However, lack of compliance with these recommendations has been well documented, both before and after the enactment of the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. Current issues, including occupationally acquired human immunodeficiency virus, percutaneous exposures and lack of compliance are discussed in this article.