What is the first step in CNT before touching needles?

What is the first step in CNT before touching needles?

• A. Perform hand hygiene (wash with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer).
• B. Wear gloves.
• C. Prepare the patient.
• D. Set up the needle tray.

Answer: (A)

Cleaning your hands is the first line of defense against contaminating sterile needles and the insertion site. In clean needle technique, all sterile supplies must remain sterile, and microbes on the hands can easily transfer to needles or to the patient. Performing hand hygiene before touching needles reduces the risk of contamination, keeping the procedure safe. After washing, you can don gloves if needed and proceed with setting up the tray or preparing the patient, but gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.

Cleaning your hands is the first line of defense against contaminating sterile needles and the insertion site. In clean needle technique, all sterile supplies must remain sterile, and microbes on the hands can easily transfer to needles or to the patient. Performing hand hygiene before touching needles reduces the risk of contamination, keeping the procedure safe. After washing, you can don gloves if needed and proceed with setting up the tray or preparing the patient, but gloves are not a substitute for hand hygiene.