Hands must be washed after which of the following actions?

Washing hands after removing gloves is essential for maintaining proper hygiene and preventing the spread of infection. When gloves are removed, they may have come into contact with contaminants, including blood, bodily fluids, or microbes from the patient. Failure to wash hands immediately after glove removal could lead to cross-contamination, potentially exposing other patients and healthcare workers to pathogens.

Hand hygiene is a critical component of infection control in healthcare settings. It is well-established that washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer helps eliminate harmful microorganisms that may have been transferred during patient care activities. Therefore, it's crucial to develop the habit of performing hand hygiene as part of the protocol following glove removal, reinforcing a safe environment for both patients and healthcare professionals.