What is the primary goal of using transmission-based precautions in healthcare settings?

The primary goal of using transmission-based precautions in healthcare settings is to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission. These precautions are specifically designed to minimize the likelihood of spreading infections from one person to another, particularly in environments where patients may have highly contagious diseases or where there is a known risk of infection transmission. By implementing isolation measures and using appropriate personal protective equipment, healthcare providers can effectively prevent the spread of infections, ensuring better health outcomes for patients and protecting the broader community from outbreaks.

The other aspects, such as preventing cross-contamination and ensuring environmental safety, are important but secondary to the main objective of controlling and reducing the spread of pathogens, which is at the heart of transmission-based precautions. Protecting healthcare personnel from exposure is also a significant concern, but the overarching aim remains on minimizing the transmission of infections between individuals.