According to Universal Precautions guidelines, how should body fluids be treated?

Body fluids should always be treated as contaminated according to Universal Precautions guidelines. This approach is grounded in the understanding that body fluids can carry infectious agents, including viruses and bacteria that pose a risk for transmission of diseases. By assuming that body fluids are hazardous, individuals implement proper safety measures, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and utilizing appropriate sanitation methods. This proactive stance is critical in preventing occupational exposure and ensuring safety in diverse environments, not just healthcare settings.

The rationale for not considering body fluids as harmless or potentially safe is that doing so could lead to neglecting necessary protective measures, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, treating body fluids as only contaminated in healthcare settings fails to recognize the potential dangers present in non-medical environments—crime scenes, accidents, or any situation involving bodily fluids also require adherence to these precautions to protect responders and the public.