What is the purpose of sterile gloves in wound care, and when should they be used?

• A. To prevent contamination and infection; used for sterile wound care and invasive procedures requiring sterility.
• B. To replace hand hygiene.
• C. To keep hands warm.
• D. To reduce fatigue.

Answer: (A)

Sterile gloves create a barrier that maintains a sterile field and prevents microorganisms from entering a wound or sterile area, protecting both the patient and the caregiver from infection. They are used whenever wound care requires sterility—such as dressing changes of open wounds, wound irrigation, debridement, or any invasive procedure that breaches sterile tissues or involves inserting devices. They’re not a substitute for hand hygiene and are not intended to keep hands warm or reduce fatigue; if the gloves are compromised or contamination is suspected, a new sterile pair should be used.