When must hand hygiene be performed in a healthcare setting?

Hand hygiene is crucial in healthcare settings for preventing the spread of infections. Performing hand hygiene before and after patient contact is essential because it significantly reduces the risk of transmitting pathogens between healthcare providers and patients. This practice ensures that any germs present on the hands after contact with a patient are removed before touching another patient or surfaces, ultimately protecting both individuals involved.

Infection can be easily spread in healthcare environments, where multiple patients may be vulnerable to infections. By adhering to rigorous hand hygiene protocols, healthcare workers create a safer environment and contribute to better patient outcomes. This practice reflects the guidelines from health organizations, which emphasize the importance of maintaining hand hygiene as a fundamental aspect of infection control.