Which type of precaution should be taken with residents known to have HIV?

The appropriate precaution to take with residents known to have HIV is universal precautions. This approach is based on the principle that all blood and certain body fluids are to be treated as if they are infectious, regardless of the patient's known status. Universal precautions emphasize the consistent use of protective measures to prevent the transmission of pathogens that can lead to infections.

By applying universal precautions, staff are trained to wear gloves, masks, and eye protection when there is a risk of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. This practice ensures the safety of both the residents and the healthcare providers by minimizing the potential for cross-contamination.

It's important to note that while standard precautions is a term often used interchangeably with universal precautions, universal precautions specifically focus on bloodborne pathogens. However, standards of care now generally encompass the principles of universal precautions in standard precautions.

Contact and protective precautions are more specific and are not necessary for residents with HIV unless there are additional infections present that warrant more stringent measures. Therefore, universal precautions remain the correct and comprehensive approach for managing care with residents known to have HIV.