What precaution is necessary after handling materials in a contact precautions setting?

In a contact precautions setting, performing hand hygiene is essential after handling materials. This practice helps to eliminate any potential pathogens that may have been present on the hands during the interaction with contaminated surfaces or materials. Hand hygiene, whether through washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, significantly reduces the risk of transmitting infections to oneself or others.

While removing gloves, disinfecting surfaces, and taking off gowns are all important practices in infection control, they do not directly address the primary concern after materials have been handled. Removing gloves and gowns is necessary to prevent the spread of germs, but the crucial next step is to ensure that hands are clean to maintain a safe environment. Disinfecting surfaces is vital for keeping the area hygienic but is performed on a different schedule and specifically after direct contamination. Therefore, in the context of proper hygiene practices following contact with potentially infectious materials, performing hand hygiene is the most critical precaution.