Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

What is the most important procedure for preventing all infections?

1. Accurate aftercare and pre-service sheet

2. Waivers

3. Single-use tubes and needles

4. Good hand-washing after glove removal

The correct answer is: Good hand-washing after glove removal

Good hand-washing after glove removal is critical for preventing infections because it eliminates potential pathogens that may have been present on the hands during the tattooing process. Even if gloves are used to minimize direct skin contact, they can still become contaminated. Removing gloves does not guarantee that hands are free from microbes, especially if proper hand hygiene is not followed. Washing hands thoroughly ensures that any bacteria or viruses that may have transferred to the skin during the procedure are effectively removed. Infection control protocols emphasize the significance of hand hygiene in healthcare and tattooing settings. This practice is essential not only to protect the individual receiving the tattoo but also to safeguard the tattoo artist and prevent the spread of infections in a broader context. While other options like single-use tubes and needles and accurate aftercare procedures are important components of infection control, effective hand-washing remains foundational in preventing all forms of infection.