Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

When should precision gloves be replaced during a procedure?

1. After every task

2. Only at the end of the shift

3. After contact with bodily fluids

4. Once per patient

The correct answer is: After contact with bodily fluids

Precision gloves should be replaced after contact with bodily fluids to ensure the safety and health of both the healthcare worker and the patient. This practice is crucial because bodily fluids can carry pathogens, and reusing gloves after such contact increases the risk of cross-contamination and infection. By changing gloves after exposure, healthcare professionals maintain a sterile environment and minimize the risk of transmitting infectious agents. Replacing gloves after every task or only at the end of the shift might not adequately address the specific moments when contamination can occur. Additionally, changing gloves once per patient does not provide the necessary frequency needed if multiple tasks are performed or if there is any exposure to contaminated materials during the care process. Hence, the practice of replacing gloves after contact with bodily fluids is supported by guidelines to enhance infection control in healthcare settings.