Which of the following is included in enteric precautions before entering a room?

Which of the following is included in enteric precautions before entering a room?

• A. Put on gloves
• B. Take off gown
• C. Perform hand hygiene
• D. Put on surgical mask

Answer: (C)

Performing hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in enteric precautions and is crucial for preventing the spread of infections, particularly those that are transmitted via the fecal-oral route. This step is essential before entering a patient's room to ensure that any potential contaminants on your hands are removed. Effective hand hygiene reduces the risk of pathogens being transferred to patients, healthcare workers, and surfaces within the healthcare environment. In enteric precautions, hand hygiene is often emphasized alongside the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and gowns. However, the act of cleansing hands is paramount and serves as the first line of defense against infection. This practice is supported by guidelines and best practices in infection control, which highlight the importance of maintaining cleanliness as a preventive measure in healthcare settings.

Performing hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in enteric precautions and is crucial for preventing the spread of infections, particularly those that are transmitted via the fecal-oral route. This step is essential before entering a patient's room to ensure that any potential contaminants on your hands are removed. Effective hand hygiene reduces the risk of pathogens being transferred to patients, healthcare workers, and surfaces within the healthcare environment.

In enteric precautions, hand hygiene is often emphasized alongside the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and gowns. However, the act of cleansing hands is paramount and serves as the first line of defense against infection. This practice is supported by guidelines and best practices in infection control, which highlight the importance of maintaining cleanliness as a preventive measure in healthcare settings.