When should a nurse aide use gloves?

Using gloves is essential when providing care that involves contact with bodily fluids due to the need for infection control and protection. Gloves serve as a barrier between the healthcare provider and potentially infectious materials, such as blood, saliva, mucus, or other bodily fluids. This practice helps to prevent the transmission of pathogens and ensures the safety of both the caregiver and the patient.

In healthcare settings, it is critical to adhere to proper infection control practices, including the use of personal protective equipment like gloves, whenever there is a risk of exposure to bodily fluids. This is standard practice to minimize health risks, especially in scenarios involving procedures such as wound care, administering injections, or handling equipment contaminated with bodily substances. Wearing gloves in these situations effectively reduces the likelihood of cross-contamination and the spread of infections.

The other options suggest either a limited or inappropriate use of gloves that could compromise safety and hygiene.