Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

Which of the following actions should an MA take to reduce the risk of transmitting pathogens?

1. Wash hands with plain soap and water

2. Use hand sanitizer after glove removal

3. Avoid wearing a mask during patient interactions

4. Reuse disposable gloves for multiple patients

The correct answer is: Wash hands with plain soap and water

Washing hands with plain soap and water is a fundamental practice in infection control. This action effectively removes dirt, debris, and a significant number of pathogens from the hands, reducing the risk of transmitting infections to patients or surfaces. It's particularly important to wash hands after potential exposure to contaminants, before patient contact, and in other critical situations when maintaining hygiene is essential. Using hand sanitizer after glove removal can also be beneficial, as it kills many pathogens but may not be as effective as washing with soap and water in certain circumstances, especially when hands are visibly soiled. Avoiding the use of masks during patient interactions increases the risk of pathogen transmission, particularly in healthcare settings where respiratory infections may be a concern. Reusing disposable gloves is directly against safety protocols designed to prevent cross-contamination and should not be practiced. Overall, hand hygiene through proper washing is a cornerstone of infection prevention.