This section contains information essential to understanding and properly using the isolation precautions that appear in the guideline and on the instruction cards. Many of the techniques and recommendations for isolation precautions are appropriate not only for patients known or suspected to be infected but also for routine patient care. For example, gowns are appropriate for patient-care personnel when soiling with feces is likely, whether or not the patient is known or suspected to be infected with an enteric pathogen, and caution should be used when handling any used needle.

Handwashing is the single most important means of preventing the spread of infection. Personnel should always wash their hands, even when gloves are used, after taking care of an infected patient or one who is colonized with microorganisms of special clinical or epidemiologic significance, for example, multiply-resistant bacteria. In addition, personnel should wash their hands after touching excretions (feces, urine, or material soiled with them) or secretions (from wounds, skin infections, etc.) before touching any patient again. Hands should also be washed before performing invasive procedures, touching wounds, or touching patients who are particularly susceptible to infection. Hands should be washed between all patient contacts in intensive care units and newborn nurseries. (See Guideline for Hospital Environmental Control: Antiseptics, Handwashing, and Handwashing Facilities.)

When taking care of patients infected (or colonized) with virulent or epidemiologically important microorganisms, personnel should consider using antiseptics for handwashing rather than soap and water, especially in intensive care units.