Which action is crucial for preventing the spread of infection in a healthcare setting?

Regular hand washing with soap and water is essential for preventing the spread of infection in healthcare settings. Hand hygiene plays a critical role in breaking the chain of infection. It effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses that can be transferred from one surface to another or from person to person, significantly reducing the risk of infections.

Using hand sanitizer only when visible dirt is present is not effective because many pathogens can be present even when hands appear clean. Wearing gloves only when necessary does not ensure complete protection against infection transmission, as gloves can give a false sense of security and may not be used consistently. Cleaning surfaces once a month is insufficient as regular cleaning and disinfection of frequently-touched surfaces are necessary to minimize the risk of infection transmission.