Which practice is essential for preventing infections in patients?

Proper hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in infection prevention for patients. This practice involves washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to eliminate pathogens that can lead to infections. Hand hygiene is particularly crucial in healthcare settings where patients may be vulnerable to hospital-acquired infections due to factors such as compromised immune systems.

Regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and using antibiotics regularly are important for overall health but do not specifically target infection prevention. While these practices can enhance a patient's immune response and general well-being, they do not substitute for the immediate and direct effect of hand hygiene in controlling the spread of infections. By ensuring that hands are clean, healthcare providers significantly reduce the likelihood of transmitting harmful microorganisms, making it a key element in patient care and safety.