STNA Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Test Prep

Maintaining good hygiene in healthcare settings plays a critical role in preventing the spread of infections and ensuring the safety of both patients and healthcare providers. Regularly cleaning equipment is fundamental since it removes dirt, debris, and pathogens that can transmit infections. Equipment that is not properly cleaned can harbor harmful microorganisms, which can lead to healthcare-associated infections.

The other options do not encompass a comprehensive approach to hygiene. Washing hands only after meals is inadequate since caregivers must wash their hands before and after patient contact, after using the restroom, and after handling contaminated materials to minimize the risk of spreading infections. Using sterile materials for all care is not always practical or necessary in every situation, as many tasks can be performed using clean but not necessarily sterile supplies, thus limiting the flexibility in care. Lastly, avoiding patient contact is counterproductive in a healthcare environment, as interaction is essential for providing care. Therefore, regular cleaning of equipment remains the most essential practice for maintaining good hygiene in healthcare settings.