What precaution is necessary to observe hygiene protocols during ultrasound examinations?

In ultrasound examinations, adhering to hygiene protocols is critical to prevent the transmission of infections and ensure patient safety. The best practice involves multiple layers of precautions.

Changing the transducer cover is essential because the transducer comes into direct contact with the patient's skin and potentially bodily fluids. A newly applied cover acts as a barrier that prevents contamination from the previous patient, thereby protecting both the current patient and the healthcare provider.

Wearing gloves and masks is equally important. Gloves help prevent hand-to-skin contact and minimize the risk of carrying pathogens from one patient to another. Masks help reduce the risk of aerosol transmission, particularly in scenarios where there's a chance of respiratory droplets entering the examination area.

Therefore, for comprehensive hygiene management, both changing the transducer cover and wearing gloves and masks are necessary steps, making the combined approach the most effective way to uphold hygiene during ultrasound examinations.