Why is it important to wash your hands between changing gloves in a microbiology laboratory?

• A. Because handwashing is only required after leaving the laboratory
• B. To remove any microorganisms that may have contaminated your hands during glove removal
• C. To prevent the gloves from tearing during use
• D. Because gloves are completely impermeable to all microbes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that gloves can have microscopic tears or can become contaminated on their surface during use, so removing gloves can transfer microorganisms to your hands.
2. Recognize that washing your hands after removing gloves helps to eliminate any microorganisms that may have been transferred during glove removal, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
3. Know that gloves are not completely impermeable to all microbes; some microorganisms can penetrate or contaminate gloves, so relying solely on gloves is insufficient for preventing contamination.
4. Acknowledge that handwashing is a critical step in maintaining aseptic technique and laboratory safety, especially when changing gloves between tasks.
5. Conclude that washing hands between glove changes is essential to ensure that any microbes picked up during glove removal do not spread to other surfaces, samples, or people.