What is the best practice regarding the use of gloves in a healthcare setting?

The correct choice emphasizes that the same pair of gloves should not be worn for the care of more than one resident, which is a fundamental principle in infection prevention and control. This practice is critical in minimizing the risk of cross-contamination between patients.

Wearing the same pair of gloves for multiple patients can easily lead to the transfer of pathogens from one patient to another, increasing the likelihood of healthcare-associated infections. Gloves are designed for single use; once they come into contact with a patient or any potentially infectious material, they should be discarded properly. This ensures that any microorganisms that may have been present on the gloves are not transmitted to others.

Additionally, this approach aligns with the guidelines set forth by infection control organizations, which advocate for the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard both patients and healthcare workers. Choosing to adhere to this practice helps maintain a safer healthcare environment and upholds the standards of infection control.