When treating a wound, what is an important step to prevent infection?

Washing hands thoroughly before treating a wound is crucial in preventing infection. This step minimizes the risk of transferring bacteria or other pathogens from the hands to the wound. Since the skin can harbor harmful microorganisms, thorough handwashing helps eliminate these potential contaminants.

Using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer effectively reduces the microbial load on the hands, thereby creating a cleaner environment for wound care. This practice is a fundamental component of infection control in both veterinary and human medicine.

While applying pressure to stop bleeding is important for managing the wound, it doesn't directly address the prevention of infection. Leaving the wound uncovered may expose it to contaminants, and using topical ointment without prior cleaning can trap dirt and bacteria in the wound. Therefore, proper hand hygiene stands out as a foundational measure in the prevention of infection during wound treatment.