What is essential for ensuring hand hygiene before and after glove use?

Thoroughly washing hands with soap and water is essential for ensuring hand hygiene before and after glove use because it effectively removes dirt, grease, and microorganisms from the skin. Soap and water work together to break down and wash away contaminants, providing a more thorough clean than other methods. This practice is especially important in healthcare settings, where the risk of infection is heightened.

Hand sanitizer, while useful in certain situations, may not be as effective in removing all types of contaminants, particularly if hands are visibly soiled. Wiping hands with alcohol wipes can serve as a quick alternative, but it may not provide the same level of thorough cleansing as washing with soap and water. Dusting hands with powder is not an appropriate method for achieving hand hygiene, as it does not clean the hands and could potentially lead to contamination.