Which scenario requires glove use?

• A. For infection control when indicated
• B. For all tasks regardless
• C. Never wear gloves
• D. Only after performing a procedure

Answer: (A)

Glove use is about infection control during tasks that involve potential contact with body fluids, secretions, mucous membranes, nonintact skin, or contaminated items. They are worn to protect both you and the resident by creating a barrier against pathogens and reducing the risk of cross-contamination. In practice, you’d put gloves on whenever you anticipate exposure to urine, stool, vomit, blood, wound drainage, saliva, or mucous membranes; when handling soiled linens or contaminated equipment; during wound care, catheter care, oral suctioning, or dressing changes; and any procedure where splashes could occur. Glove use isn’t required for every task—if there’s no contact with fluids or contaminated items, gloves aren’t needed. Always wash your hands before donning gloves and after removing them, and change gloves between tasks and patients or if they become torn or contaminated. This approach keeps you and the patient safer and supports proper care practices.