What is the correct protocol for glove usage when moving between body sites?

Changing gloves when moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site is critical in preventing the transfer of pathogens and maintaining proper infection control practices. This protocol is rooted in the principles of barrier precautions, which aim to protect both patients and healthcare workers from the spread of infection.

When gloves are used during procedures involving any part of the body that may harbor pathogens, they can become contaminated. If the same gloves are used to touch clean or sterile areas or patients, there’s a significant risk of transferring harmful microorganisms from contaminated sites, such as wounds or mucous membranes, to those that should remain clean or sterile. Therefore, changing gloves in this context is essential to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

This practice is particularly important in healthcare settings, where patients may be vulnerable to infections due to weakened immune systems or surgical procedures. Adhering to this protocol helps maintain a high standard of care and fosters a safer environment for both patients and staff.

While there may be situations in which gloves need to be changed due to visible soiling or other factors, the key focus here is specifically on the transition between contaminated and clean sites, underscoring the importance of this particular change in gloves to prevent infection.