What role do gloves play in infection control?

Gloves serve as a critical barrier to infective materials, playing a vital role in infection control. When healthcare providers wear gloves, they create a physical separation between their hands and potential contaminants, including blood, bodily fluids, and pathogens that could cause infection. This barrier is especially important during procedures or while handling items that may carry infectious agents.

By wearing gloves, healthcare practitioners help prevent microorganisms from being transmitted from one surface to another, or from patient to patient, which is crucial in maintaining a safe clinical environment. However, it is important to note that while gloves greatly reduce the risk of infection transmission, they do not prevent all forms of contamination, thus making it essential to follow proper hand hygiene practices even when gloves are worn.

The use of gloves does not negate the necessity of handwashing, as there are instances where gloves can tear or become contaminated. Therefore, hand hygiene remains an integral part of infection control practices alongside the use of gloves.