Universal precautions in the operating department

Those operating theatre personnel who aim to keep up to date by reading the professional journals may well be confused and feel uninformed about the concept of universal precautions. While some authors focus on universal precautions, they do not mention operating theatres. Others continue to discuss the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and high risk patient's. Furthermore the practical aspects of the implementation of universal precautions have not, to date, been thoroughly documented, other than the vague advice of 'treat every patient the same'. This article aims to clarify the concept of universal precautions, consider why they are needed, and suggest a possible pathway for their implementation. The three main changes in practice will also be discussed.