Isolation (health care)

In health care, isolation is a measure taken to prevent contagious diseases from being spread from a patient to other patients, health care workers, and visitors. Various forms of isolation exist, some of in which contact procedures are modified, and others in which the patient is kept away from all others.

Forms of isolation

Blood and body fluids precautions

Used when there is concern about communicable diseases found in a patient's body fluid. Health care workers making contact with the patient when body fluids are involved must wear gloves.

Contact isolation

Is used to prevent the spread of diseases that can be spread through contact with open wounds. Health care workers making contact with a patient on contact isolation are required to wear gloves, and in some cases, a gown

Respiratory isolation

Is used when a patient has a disease that can be spread through the air. Those having contact with or exposure to such a patient are required to wear a mask.

trict isolation

Patient is kept in a room separate from other patients, health care staff contact is minimal, and in some cases, visitors are not allowed. Is used for the most contagious diseases of all.

ee also

*Quarantine
*Universal precautions