**Question:** Universal precautions to be observed by surgeons for the prevention of hospital acquired HIV infection include the following except

A. Hand hygiene
B. Use of sterile gloves
C. Use of a surgical mask
D. Use of a gown and gowning

**Core Concept:** Universal precautions are a set of safety guidelines implemented in healthcare settings to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens, such as HIV. The guidelines involve the following: hand hygiene, use of sterile gloves, use of a surgical mask, and wearing a gown and gowning.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The correct answer (A) is "Use of a surgical mask" because, while surgical masks are crucial for respiratory protection and preventing the spread of respiratory pathogens, they do not provide complete protection against blood-borne pathogens like HIV. Surgical masks are designed to protect against larger particles and droplets, but not blood and body fluids.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

B. **Use of sterile gloves**: Sterile gloves are essential in preventing the transmission of blood-borne pathogens and maintaining aseptic conditions during surgical procedures. This option is incorrect because it is a correct part of universal precautions.

C. **Use of a surgical mask**: As mentioned before, surgical masks are important for respiratory protection but are not sufficient for preventing blood-borne pathogens like HIV. This option is incorrect because it is a correct part of universal precautions.

D. **Wearing a gown and gowning**: Gowns and gowning are necessary for protecting healthcare workers and patients from blood-borne pathogens. This option is incorrect because it is a correct part of universal precautions.

**Clinical Pearl:**

When dealing with blood-borne pathogens like HIV, it is crucial to follow a comprehensive approach that includes hand hygiene, use of sterile gloves, wearing a surgical mask, and wearing a gown and gowning. These measures help protect both healthcare workers and patients from infections, ensuring patient safety and reducing the risk of transmission of blood-borne pathogens.