How often should healthcare workers change their gloves when caring for a patient in isolation?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of infection control practices in healthcare settings. Healthcare workers should change their gloves between tasks or procedures on the same patient to prevent contamination. This practice is crucial because even when gloves are worn, they can carry pathogens from one area of the patient's body to another or from equipment to the patient if the gloves are not changed appropriately.

By changing gloves between tasks, healthcare workers help minimize the risk of transmitting infections, particularly for patients in isolation who are often more vulnerable to potential pathogens. This action aligns with standard precautions and infection control measures, which are designed to maintain patient safety and prevent the spread of infections within healthcare environments.

Frequent glove changes not only safeguard the patient but also protect healthcare workers and other patients by limiting the possible spread of infectious agents. Thus, this practice is considered a fundamental aspect of safe healthcare delivery and is essential in maintaining the integrity of isolation protocols.