When handling sterile gloves, what is an important rule to remember?

When handling sterile gloves, it is essential to only touch the outside of the glove with your first gloved hand. This is crucial because the inside of the gloves is sterile and should not come into contact with any non-sterile surfaces, including your skin. By touching only the outside of the glove, you maintain the sterility required for procedures where infection control is paramount.

Maintaining a strict boundary between the sterile and non-sterile areas ensures that any medical or surgical procedure is performed safely, reducing the risk of introducing pathogens. This practice is fundamental in nursing and other healthcare settings to uphold patient safety and adherence to infection control protocols. Understanding and implementing this guideline helps in preventing contamination and protecting both the patient and the healthcare provider.