When can alcohol-based solutions be used in relation to gloves?

Alcohol-based solutions are effective hand sanitizers that can be used before and after glove use to ensure optimal hand hygiene. Using alcohol-based hand rubs before donning gloves helps to minimize the risk of contamination when putting on the gloves. This is crucial in clinical settings, where providers may encounter infectious agents. Additionally, using the solutions after removing gloves is vital because, although gloves act as a barrier, they can become contaminated during procedures. Therefore, using alcohol-based solutions before and after glove use is key to maintaining a clean and safe environment for both healthcare providers and patients.

Effective hand hygiene is critical in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections, and understanding the appropriate timing for using alcohol-based solutions reinforces the importance of infection control. This practice aligns with guidelines established by infection prevention organizations and supports safe patient care practices.