What must you do when leaving a dirty area and going to a clean area to get supplies?

When transitioning from a dirty area to a clean area, it is essential to remove gloves and perform hand hygiene to prevent the potential transfer of contaminants. Gloves can harbor microorganisms and pathogens from the dirty environment, and if they are not removed, those contaminants may be introduced into the clean area.

Performing hand hygiene after removing the gloves further ensures that any residual contaminants on the hands are eliminated. This practice upholds infection control standards and helps protect both the patient and healthcare staff from unnecessary exposure to infectious agents.

In practice, maintaining a clear distinction between dirty and clean areas is critical in healthcare settings. Proper protocol not only safeguards hygiene but also fosters a safe environment for delivering patient care.