What should be done before performing any task related to infection control?

Before performing any task related to infection control, washing hands thoroughly is a fundamental step that should never be overlooked. Good hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the transmission of pathogens and reducing the risk of infection both for the caregiver and the client. Proper handwashing involves using soap and water or a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, which effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin.

This action establishes a clean baseline before interacting with clients or handling any medical supplies. It also reinforces the practices of infection control by minimizing the chances of contaminating surfaces or spreading germs, which is vital in home care settings where the health and safety of vulnerable individuals are at stake.

In contrast, while putting on protective equipment, informing the client, and gathering materials are all important steps in the infection control process, they should occur after ensuring hands are clean, as the efficacy of these measures can be significantly compromised without proper hand hygiene.