What is the purpose of barrier precautions during care?

• A. To save water
• B. To protect staff only
• C. To prevent the spread of infection and protect both resident and caregiver
• D. To speed up care

Answer: (C)

Barrier precautions are used to prevent the spread of infection by creating a protective barrier between the caregiver and the resident’s germs. They help reduce the chance that pathogens move from resident to caregiver or from caregiver to resident during care tasks. This protective measure includes using gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection when appropriate, along with proper hand hygiene before and after any interaction. The goal is to safeguard both residents and staff, rather than saving water or speeding up care.