Which statement describes a component of indirect care always performed during nursing procedures?

• A. Perform procedure exactly as instructed by the patient
• B. Handwash before and after each nursing procedure
• C. Consult with family
• D. Document after completion

Answer: (B)

Hand hygiene is a fundamental safety step that supports care by preventing the spread of germs. Washing hands before starting a procedure and after finishing protects both the patient and the caregiver, making it an action that underpins indirect care. It isn’t about performing the task itself for the patient, but about creating a safe environment for any care you provide. This standard precaution applies to nearly every nursing procedure, which is why it stands out as the best choice. Other options describe actions that aren’t universally required as part of every procedure: following a patient’s instructions is a direct care activity, consulting with family isn’t a guaranteed step in every procedure, and documenting is important but occurs after care and isn’t the ongoing safety measure that hand hygiene provides during the procedure.