When should a nurse perform hand hygiene before medication administration?

Performing hand hygiene before preparing and administering medications is crucial to prevent the transmission of infections and ensure patient safety. Hand hygiene is a fundamental practice that reduces the risk of contaminating medications and protecting the patient from potential infections. When a nurse washes their hands before engaging in medication preparation and administration, they eliminate potential pathogens that could be transferred to the medication or the patient, thereby adhering to infection control protocols.

This practice is a part of the broader standard of care in nursing that emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. By prioritizing hand hygiene at this stage, nurses not only protect their patients but also uphold the integrity of the medications being administered, ensuring that the treatment remains effective and safe.