When is it necessary for healthcare workers to wear gloves?

Wearing gloves is crucial in situations where there is potential contact with blood or other body fluids. This practice is a key component of standard precautions aimed at preventing the transmission of infections. When healthcare workers wear gloves, they create a protective barrier that minimizes the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other infectious materials. This is particularly important when performing procedures that may involve drawing blood, handling medical waste, or managing any potential source of infection.

In contrast, wearing gloves during meal preparation or in non-clinical environments is generally not standard practice unless there is a specific risk of contamination. Similarly, wearing gloves only when requested by a patient does not align with established safety protocols, as it is the responsibility of healthcare workers to follow guidelines to protect both themselves and their patients, regardless of patient requests.