When should you perform hand hygiene if wearing gloves?

Performing hand hygiene after removing gloves is essential because gloves are designed to reduce the transmission of pathogens but do not provide complete protection. During glove use, especially when multiple tasks are being performed or if hands come into contact with surfaces or materials, it is possible for the skin to become contaminated. Thus, even when gloves are used, hand hygiene ensures that any pathogens that may have come into contact with the hands during and after glove use are eliminated. This step is vital for maintaining safety and preventing infection transmission, especially in healthcare settings where patients may have compromised immune systems. In this context, using hand hygiene correctly after glove removal is a critical practice in infection control.