Why is a patient placed in reverse isolation?

A patient is placed in reverse isolation primarily to prevent the patient from external infections. This practice is crucial for individuals who have compromised immune systems, which could be due to conditions such as undergoing chemotherapy, experiencing severe burns, or having immune deficiencies. In such cases, the patient's body is less capable of fighting off infections, making it imperative to create an environment that minimizes exposure to infectious agents.

The use of protective measures, including physical barriers and limited visitor access, helps ensure that the patient is shielded from pathogens that could lead to serious complications. This approach contrasts with standard isolation, where the focus is on preventing the spread of infections from the patient to others. Overall, reverse isolation is a vital protocol in the healthcare setting to maintain the health and safety of vulnerable patients.