Which activity is NOT part of standard precautions?

The activity that does not align with standard precautions is changing linens without gloves. Standard precautions are safety protocols designed to prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare settings. These precautions apply to all patients, regardless of their infection status, and include practices that reduce the risk of infection transmission.

Wearing gloves when handling blood is a critical component of these precautions, as blood can be a source of infectious agents. Using hand sanitizers is also a key practice, as proper hand hygiene plays a vital role in preventing the spread of germs. Additionally, cleaning surfaces regularly is important to minimize environmental contamination and protect both healthcare workers and patients.

In the context of changing linens, wearing gloves is essential because linens can easily become contaminated with bodily fluids or pathogens. Therefore, neglecting to wear gloves while handling potentially contaminated linens increases the risk of exposure to infectious materials. This clearly highlights the importance of consistently adhering to standard precautions in all aspects of patient care.