North Carolina Medication Aide (Med Tech) Practice Exam

What is the primary reason for wearing gloves when administering medications?

1. To protect the medication

2. To prevent infection

3. To look professional

4. To avoid contamination

The correct answer is: To prevent infection

Wearing gloves when administering medications is primarily aimed at preventing infection. Gloves serve as a barrier between the healthcare provider's hands and the patient, as well as the medication itself. This protective measure helps to reduce the risk of transferring pathogens from one person to another, ensuring that both the caregiver and recipient of care remain safe from potential infections. While other reasons such as avoiding contamination and protecting the medication can also be valid, the foremost concern in a healthcare setting is the prevention of infection. Healthcare environments often involve contact with bodily fluids, open wounds, or compromised immune systems, making infection control paramount. Thus, the emphasis on glove use underscores the critical importance of maintaining hygiene and safeguarding public health.