Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

The single most effective way to prevent infection is to?

1. Use hand sanitizer

2. Wear gloves

3. Wash hands

4. Disinfect surfaces

The correct answer is: Wash hands

Washing hands is recognized as the single most effective way to prevent infection. This practice helps remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin, significantly reducing the likelihood of pathogen transmission. Handwashing is effective because it not only eliminates visible contaminants but also provides a means to remove microorganisms that are not easily visible. Proper handwashing involves scrubbing all surfaces of the hands – including the back of the hands, between fingers, and under nails – with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This thorough technique ensures that a wide array of potential pathogens is removed, thereby protecting both the individual and others from infections. While other methods such as using hand sanitizer, wearing gloves, and disinfecting surfaces contribute to overall infection control strategies, they are typically considered supplementary measures. Hand sanitizer can effectively eliminate germs but is less effective when hands are visibly dirty. Wearing gloves can protect healthcare providers, but it does not cancel out the need for hand hygiene practices. Disinfecting surfaces is important to prevent the spread of pathogens in the environment, but it doesn't replace the role of personal hygiene in preventing infections at the source.