What is an essential practice for respiratory hygiene in healthcare settings?

Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing is essential for respiratory hygiene in healthcare settings because it significantly reduces the spread of respiratory pathogens. This practice helps to contain respiratory droplets that may carry infectious agents, thus protecting both healthcare personnel and other patients from potential transmission. Implementing this simple yet effective measure is crucial in controlling the spread of infections, particularly in environments where vulnerable individuals may be present, such as hospitals and clinics.

While wearing gloves, avoiding patient interaction, and isolating all patients may address other aspects of infection control, they do not directly target the prevention of respiratory droplet transmission in the same proactive manner as proper respiratory hygiene practices.