Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

When should non-sterile gloves be utilized in healthcare?

1. When administering vaccinations

2. When contacting blood or other bodily fluids

3. Only during surgical procedures

4. When handling food

The correct answer is: When contacting blood or other bodily fluids

Non-sterile gloves should be utilized when there is a potential for contact with blood or other bodily fluids to protect both the healthcare provider and the patient from infection and contamination. This practice is grounded in standard infection control and prevention protocols that aim to minimize the risk of transmission of pathogens. Wearing non-sterile gloves during such encounters helps create a barrier that prevents direct contact with potentially infectious materials, thereby enhancing safety in healthcare settings. Other scenarios mentioned in the options, such as administering vaccinations, while important, do not inherently require non-sterile gloves unless there is an expectation of exposure to blood. Surgical procedures typically require sterile gloves to maintain a sterile field, and handling food generally does not necessitate gloves unless there are concerns about cross-contamination or food safety practices that require it. Therefore, the requirement for non-sterile gloves is primarily centered on situations involving exposure to blood or bodily fluids.