What is the term for a set of procedures that can break the chain of transmission?

The term that refers to a set of procedures aimed at breaking the chain of transmission is standard precautions. These procedures are designed to minimize the risk of spreading infections and include practices such as hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (like gloves and masks), and proper handling of potentially infectious materials. Standard precautions are crucial in healthcare settings to protect both patients and healthcare workers from infections that can be transmitted through blood, bodily fluids, or non-intact skin.

While safety protocols and preventative measures may encompass aspects of infection control, they do not specifically capture the comprehensive framework established by standard precautions, which are recognized globally as essential for infection prevention. Health guidelines are more general recommendations that may include a wide range of health-related practices and do not focus solely on reducing transmission.