Which of the following statements about hygiene practice is true?

Hand washing is essential in maintaining proper hygiene, especially in settings that require careful cleanliness, such as electrolysis and laser treatments. This practice helps eliminate pathogens and prevent the spread of infection. Performing hand washing after every procedure ensures that any contaminants from the previous treatment are removed, thereby reducing the risk of cross-contamination between clients.

The other statements do not align with best hygiene practices. For instance, while gloves provide a protective barrier, they can still carry pathogens if not used correctly. Therefore, handwashing is necessary even when gloves are worn. Similarly, while alcohol wipes can reduce microbial load, they do not effectively remove dirt or bodily fluids, which makes thorough washing preferable. Lastly, hand sanitizers are useful in situations where soap and water are not available, but they do not entirely replace the need for handwashing, particularly when hands are visibly soiled. Hence, the emphasis on hand washing after every procedure is grounded in preventing infection and ensuring a safe environment for clients.