Which action is part of indirect care before performing a procedure?

• A. Wash hands thoroughly prior to entering room.
• B. Start the procedure without greeting.
• C. Leave visitors in the room and inform them of where they may wait.
• D. Skip privacy measures.

Answer: (A)

Washing hands thoroughly before entering the room is a fundamental step in indirect care because it prevents the spread of germs to the patient and to you before any procedure. Hand hygiene protects both parties and sets the stage for all subsequent steps, including when you later touch the patient or equipment. It follows standard precautions and should be done regardless of whether gloves will be used.

Greeting the resident is important for communication and consent, but it doesn’t address infection control. Letting visitors stay or waiting is about room setup and privacy, not the immediate infection-prevention measure needed before you begin. Skipping privacy measures violates the patient’s rights and safety, so that isn’t appropriate either.