What hygiene practice should be performed before and after resident care procedures?

The correct focus on performing hand hygiene by covering all surfaces of the hands with hand sanitizer and rubbing until dry emphasizes the critical importance of preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Hand hygiene is recognized as one of the most effective measures to reduce the transmission of pathogens.

Utilizing hand sanitizer is convenient for maintaining hygiene, especially in situations where soap and water may not be immediately accessible. The effectiveness of hand sanitizer in reducing the microbial count on hands relies on ensuring that all surfaces are thoroughly covered and that the product is given adequate time to dry, allowing for optimal disinfection to take place.

The other options present alternatives that do not fully satisfy the comprehensive practice of hand hygiene necessary before and after resident care procedures. For instance, wearing gloves at all times could lead to a false sense of security and might not replace the need for hand hygiene. Similarly, while using antibacterial wipes might clean surfaces effectively, it does not address the need for personal hand hygiene directly. Lastly, while sanitizing hands with soap and water is essential, the emphasis on a specific duration without training on technique may not guarantee that hands are cleaned thoroughly. Thus, the approach highlighted in the correct answer provides a more efficient and effective method for ensuring personal hygiene in a clinical setting.