Which of the following is a critical component of infection control practices?

Implementing effective hand hygiene is a critical component of infection control practices because it significantly reduces the transmission of pathogens. Hand hygiene, which includes washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, serves as a primary method to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. This practice helps to eliminate germs that can be present on hands after contact with patients, surfaces, or equipment, thereby minimizing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

In contrast, using expired medications can pose risks to patient safety and does not contribute to infection control. Wearing jewelry during procedures can harbor bacteria and make proper hand hygiene difficult, while using non-sterile gloves does not provide adequate protection against infection unless proper aseptic techniques are followed. Proper hand hygiene remains fundamental to maintaining a clean environment and ensuring the overall safety of both healthcare workers and patients.