Which of the following is crucial for preventing infection spread?

Washing hands before and after care is fundamental in preventing the spread of infections. This practice significantly reduces the number of pathogens on the hands, which is critical in minimizing the risk of cross-contamination between patients and healthcare providers. Hands are often the primary vectors for transmitting infections, so by ensuring they are clean before engaging in patient care and again after contact, it creates a barrier against potential infections.

In healthcare settings, where clients may have compromised immune systems, the practice of hand hygiene—using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer—can greatly decrease the likelihood of transmitting harmful microorganisms. This consistent approach is endorsed by health organizations worldwide as a key component of effective infection control protocols.

Other options such as wearing gloves, disinfecting at the end of each shift, or using hand sanitizer, while also important, do not replace the necessity of handwashing; they could be part of a broader regimen but are not as universally critical as the fundamental act of washing hands effectively.