When should a nurse perform hand hygiene?

Hand hygiene is a crucial practice in ensuring patient safety and preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Performing hand hygiene before and after patient contact is essential because it significantly reduces the risk of transmitting pathogens.

When a nurse interacts with a patient, they may touch surfaces, equipment, or even the patient themselves, which could potentially harbor harmful microorganisms. By performing hand hygiene both before and after this contact, the nurse protects not only the patient but also themselves and other patients they may encounter afterward.

While hand hygiene is important in other specific scenarios, such as after using the restroom or before administering medications, it is most critical in the context of patient interactions where the risk of transmission is greatest. This comprehensive approach ensures that all potential sources of contamination are addressed, maintaining a clean and safe clinical environment.