What action is essential before and after patient contact to prevent infections?

Performing proper hand hygiene is fundamental to preventing infections both before and after patient contact. This action significantly reduces the risk of transmitting pathogens that can lead to healthcare-associated infections, which are often serious and can complicate patient care. Hand hygiene includes washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, depending on the situation.

By adhering to proper hand hygiene, healthcare workers can effectively eliminate or reduce the presence of harmful microorganisms on their hands, which is essential given that hands are a primary vector for the spread of infections. Regular and effective handwashing is recognized as one of the most critical measures for infection control in healthcare settings, reinforcing the importance of this practice in maintaining patient safety and health.