What is a primary reason to wash hands before donning gloves?

Washing hands before donning gloves is crucial primarily for the prevention of cross-contamination. The act of handwashing helps remove any bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens that may be present on the skin. Even if gloves are worn, they can become a vector for transmitting microorganisms if the hands are not clean before putting them on. By ensuring that hands are properly washed, the risk of transferring germs to the patient or to other surfaces during a dental procedure is significantly reduced, which is essential for maintaining a safe and sterile environment.

While preparing for a procedure, complying with regulations, and maintaining a professional appearance are all important considerations in infection control practices, the central focus of handwashing before glove application is to ensure the safety and health of both the dental professional and the patient by minimizing the chance of infection transmission.