What role does changing gloves and performing hand hygiene play in blood testing?

Changing gloves and performing hand hygiene are critical practices in blood testing because they help prevent cross-contamination between procedures. When healthcare professionals collect blood samples, they may inadvertently introduce contaminants from one patient or procedure to another if proper hygiene practices are not followed.

By changing gloves between tasks and performing hand hygiene, the risk of transferring pathogens or infectious agents from skin, equipment, or surfaces is minimized, ensuring that test results are accurate and that the safety of both patients and healthcare providers is maintained. This practice is part of the core principles of infection prevention and control, highlighting the importance of maintaining a sterile environment during medical procedures.

Moreover, this aligns with best practices recommended by health authorities, which emphasize the need for strict adherence to infection control measures, especially in procedures that involve potential exposure to blood and bodily fluids.