Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What is the single most important way to break the chain of infection?

1. Wearing gloves

2. Cleaning your hands

3. Using hand sanitizer

4. Disinfecting surfaces

The correct answer is: Cleaning your hands

The single most important way to break the chain of infection is through the practice of hand hygiene, which is why cleaning your hands is the correct answer. Hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in infection control because the hands serve as a major vehicle for the transmission of pathogens. By thoroughly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, individuals can effectively remove dirt, organic matter, and microorganisms that could lead to infections. While wearing gloves, using hand sanitizer, and disinfecting surfaces are all important components of infection control, they are not as universally effective as frequent and proper hand washing. Gloves can give a false sense of security and might not be effective if they are used inappropriately or removed without hand hygiene practices following their use. Hand sanitizers are useful but may not be as effective against certain pathogens, especially when hands are visibly soiled. Disinfecting surfaces is important for preventing the spread of infection, yet it does not directly address the primary means of pathogen transmission via hands. Thus, prioritizing hand hygiene stands out as the most crucial intervention in breaking the cycle of infection.