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Clinical Systems Infection Control

Quick Response: Why do I have to wash my hands, if I am wearing gloves?

This question was submitted by a general dentist: Why do I have to wash my hands, if I am wearing gloves?

Dr. Nita Mazurat, representing the Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention (OSAP) has provided this quick initial response

Gloved handsHand hygiene is performed because hands are a potential source of contamination to the patient, when placing gloves or during treatment.

Microorganisms grow exponentially in the warm moist environment of the glove. If a glove becomes compromised during treatment, there is more protection to the patient, if the hands have been washed and perhaps even more if they were washed using an antimicrobial agent.

 

Do you need further information on this topic? Do you have any comments or suggestions? Email us at oasisdiscussions@cda-adc.ca

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