Which of the following is a key factor in preventing infection in a healthcare setting?

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is a fundamental strategy in preventing infection within healthcare settings. PPE includes items such as gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, which create barriers against the transmission of infectious agents. When healthcare personnel utilize appropriate PPE, they reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens that can cause infections, not just for themselves but also for patients, especially those who may be particularly vulnerable.

Infection control practices are crucial in maintaining a safe environment within healthcare facilities. The effective use of PPE is part of a broader infection prevention protocol that also includes proper hand hygiene, sterilization of equipment, and adherence to protocols when handling infectious materials. This multifaceted approach ensures that the occurrence of healthcare-associated infections is minimized, which is essential for patient safety and overall public health.

Regular team meetings may help enhance communication and reinforce protocols among staff, but they do not directly prevent infections. Lengthy hospital stays can actually increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections, as prolonged exposure to the healthcare environment may result in higher chances of exposure to potential pathogens. Similarly, while electronic record-keeping can improve efficiency and information management, it does not have a direct impact on infection control practices. Thus, the use of PPE stands out as the most critical factor for