What should you always do before and after patient care?

Washing your hands thoroughly before and after patient care is essential to maintaining a high standard of hygiene and preventing the spread of infections. Hand hygiene is a critical practice in healthcare settings because hands can easily transfer pathogens to patients, staff, and surfaces. By thoroughly washing your hands, you effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses, significantly reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

This practice is supported by guidelines from health organizations, which emphasize that proper handwashing should be performed before patient contact to protect the patient from potential pathogens carried on the caregiver's hands and afterward to ensure any contaminants are eliminated after patient care. This simple yet powerful practice is one of the most effective ways to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and healthcare providers alike.