What is one effective way to prevent the spread of germs during an oral hygiene session?

Wearing disposable gloves during an oral hygiene session is an effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Gloves act as a barrier between the Direct Support Professional and the individual receiving care. This protective measure minimizes the risk of transferring microbes from hands to the mouth or other surfaces, as well as from person to person.

While proper hand hygiene is crucial, simply washing hands before the session does not provide ongoing protection during the care process. Using a shared toothbrush would not only fail to prevent the spread of germs but would likely increase it, as toothbrushes can harbor bacteria. Although antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth, it does not mitigate the risk from hands or instruments used during the hygiene session. Therefore, utilizing gloves provides a continuous layer of protection throughout the procedure, making it a key practice in maintaining hygiene and preventing infection.