To prevent the spread of infection, what should healthcare workers do before and after patient contact?

Washing hands before and after patient contact is essential in preventing the spread of infection. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to minimize the transmission of pathogens and protect both staff and patients. When healthcare workers wash their hands, they remove dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants, which reduces the risk of infections that can be transmitted from surfaces or person-to-person.

While wearing gloves is important in certain situations to provide a physical barrier, it does not replace the necessity of hand hygiene. Hands can become contaminated during glove removal or if gloves are improperly fitted. Changing scrubs is also essential for maintaining overall hygiene, but it is not a routine measure taken before and after each patient interaction. Using hand sanitizer is an effective alternative when soap and water are not available, but thorough washing with soap and water is preferred in many contexts, especially when hands are visibly dirty or contaminated.