Standard precautions include which of the following?

Standard precautions are integral to infection control practices in healthcare settings, designed to protect both caregivers and patients from the transmission of infectious agents. The correct answer emphasizes the specific scenarios in which gloves should be worn to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens. Wearing gloves when there is any possibility of coming into contact with blood, bodily fluids, mucous membranes, or broken skin is essential because these are common routes through which infections can spread.

This approach aligns with best practices and guidelines established by health organizations, which recommend that gloves be used as a barrier to protect the individual from exposure to infectious substances. The option reflecting the use of gloves in these specific situations is in line with the principles of standard precautions, ensuring that direct care workers take necessary precautions based on the risk of exposure.

In contrast, the other options do not align fully with standard precautions. For example, using gloves solely when dealing with food does not consider other critical situations where contact with bodily fluids may occur. Wearing gloves at all times is impractical and does not allow for appropriate hand hygiene practices between tasks. Lastly, wearing gloves only when administering medications disregards the broader range of contact scenarios that may lead to transmission, as the risk isn't limited to medication administration.