Which of the following is a core infection control practice to prevent the spread of infection?

• A. Hand hygiene
• B. Eating during care
• C. Wearing jewelry on hands
• D. Reusing disposable gloves

Answer: (A)

Hand hygiene is the key practice for preventing the spread of infection. Regular and proper handwashing or using an alcohol-based hand rub removes or kills germs that can be carried from one person or surface to another. In caregiving, perform hand hygiene consistently: before touching a resident, before any clean or sterile procedure, after potential exposure to bodily fluids, after touching a resident or their surroundings, and after removing gloves. Use soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or contaminated; otherwise, an alcohol-based hand rub is quick and effective.

This simple step sharply reduces the transmission of bacteria, viruses, and spores, protecting both clients and caregivers. Eating during care introduces contamination risk; wearing jewelry on the hands can harbor microbes and hinder effective cleaning; and reusing disposable gloves breaks the protective barrier and can spread infection between tasks or clients. Gloves should be changed between activities and disposed of properly.