Standard Precautions — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Applying standard infection control precautions to every patient
The correct answer is C. Standard infection control precautions are applied to every patient because infection may arise from recognised or unrecognised sources. They include hand hygiene, task-appropriate PPE, safe management and decontamination of equipment and the environment, and safe handling of waste and sharps. Blood-borne virus screening does not identify every infection and never replaces standard precautions. Routine antibiotic prophylaxis is neither an infection-control measure nor consistent with antimicrobial stewardship. Reusable instruments are acceptable when appropriately decontaminated, so exclusive use of disposable instruments is unnecessary. Surgical gowns are selected according to the anticipated exposure risk, such as extensive splashing, rather than worn for every procedure.
Reference: NHS England. National Infection Prevention and Control Manual for England, Chapter 1: Standard infection control precautions (SICPs), current online edition, accessed 26 August 2026. https://www.england.nhs.uk/infection-prevention-and-control/nipcm-for-england/chapter-1-standard-infection-control-precautions-sicps/