What is the primary purpose of reverse isolation?

The primary purpose of reverse isolation is to protect the patient from environmental pathogens. This practice is particularly important for immunocompromised patients, such as those with weakened immune systems due to conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS, or organ transplants. In these situations, the patient's body is less able to fight off infections that may be present in the environment.

Reverse isolation provides a controlled environment where staff and visitors adhere to strict hygiene protocols to minimize the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms to the patient. Protective barriers, such as gloves and masks for healthcare workers, and sometimes specialized rooms with air filtration systems, help ensure that the patient remains as safe as possible from potential sources of infection.

The other options refer to different scenarios or needs in healthcare. Preventing the spread of infection is more relevant to standard precautions used in healthcare settings, while controlling allergic reactions and managing chronic diseases involve different therapeutic approaches and considerations that do not specifically relate to the concept of reverse isolation.