What does "universal precautions" mean in the context of patient treatment?

In the context of patient treatment, "universal precautions" means treating every patient as potentially infectious. This approach is foundational to infection control in healthcare settings and ensures that dental radiographers and other healthcare personnel implement consistent protective measures, regardless of a patient's visible symptoms or health status. By assuming that all patients may carry infectious agents, practitioners can effectively minimize the risk of disease transmission. This principle encourages the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper hand hygiene, and other precautionary protocols for every patient interaction, creating a safe environment for both patients and healthcare workers.