What is a key focus of hand hygiene in the ATI Swift River Test?

Hand hygiene is fundamentally aimed at minimizing the spread of infections. This practice is critically important in healthcare settings, as it directly impacts patient safety and outcomes. By ensuring that healthcare providers consistently perform hand hygiene, the transmission of pathogens can be significantly reduced, thereby preventing healthcare-associated infections.

While reducing paperwork and assessing the quality of care may have indirect relationships with hand hygiene, they do not capture the primary objective of this practice. Focusing solely on training students on proper handwashing does not encompass the broader goal of infection control and prevention, which is central to maintaining a safe environment for both patients and healthcare workers. The emphasis on minimizing infection spread reflects the essential role of hand hygiene in infection prevention protocols and overall patient health management.