What is a benefit of using gloves in healthcare according to Universal Precautions?

The use of gloves in healthcare settings is primarily aimed at preventing exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This practice is a key element of Universal Precautions, which are guidelines designed to protect healthcare workers and patients from the transmission of infections. By using gloves, healthcare providers create a barrier that helps reduce the risk of coming into contact with infectious materials, such as blood, bodily fluids, and other potentially contaminated substances. This barrier is essential in ensuring both the safety of healthcare workers and the patients they care for, thereby helping to maintain a safe clinical environment.

While reducing infection transmission and other factors such as dexterity and warmth are considerations in healthcare practices, the central purpose of wearing gloves aligns specifically with the prevention of exposure to pathogens and transmission of infections.