What is the primary purpose of hand hygiene before catheter care?

The primary purpose of hand hygiene before catheter care is to prevent infection and maintain cleanliness. Proper handwashing is crucial in healthcare settings because it significantly reduces the risk of transferring pathogens, which could lead to urinary tract infections or other complications in patients with catheters. By ensuring that hands are clean before performing any procedure, healthcare providers create a safer environment for both the patient and themselves.

Maintaining this level of hygiene not only protects the individual being cared for but also upholds standard infection control practices that are essential in nursing and caregiver roles. This practice is a foundational aspect of patient care that demonstrates professionalism and respect for the health and safety of patients. Other options, while they may involve good practices, do not align as closely with the critical necessity of infection control as the hand hygiene procedure does.