What is true regarding hand hygiene when providing care for a soft-tissue injury?

Hand hygiene is a critical part of infection control, especially when caring for soft-tissue injuries. Even if gloves were worn during the care, washing hands afterward is essential to eliminate any pathogens that may have come into contact with the skin, gloves, or surfaces during the procedure. The act of wearing gloves doesn’t provide complete isolation from the risk of contamination, as gloves can have micro-tears or can be contaminated during the care process.

By washing hands after glove use, healthcare providers minimize the potential for cross-contamination, ensuring a higher level of safety for both the caregiver and the patient. This represents a fundamental understanding of infection prevention strategies that are vital in any medical emergency, especially in wilderness settings where the risk of infection can be heightened due to environmental factors.