What is the primary goal of body substance isolation (BSI)?

The primary goal of body substance isolation, or BSI, is to prevent cross-contamination between healthcare providers and patients, as well as among patients themselves. This practice is essential, especially in emergency medical situations where exposure to bodily fluids can occur. By implementing BSI, EMTs and other healthcare providers use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns to create a barrier that minimizes the risk of transmission of infectious agents.

This approach is particularly important in situations where blood or other bodily fluids may be present, as it helps to safeguard the health of both the care provider and the patient. While enhancing patient comfort, improving response time, and reducing emergency costs may indirectly be influenced by effective isolation practices, they do not directly encapsulate the primary objective of BSI, which is fundamentally about safety and preventing infection.