Which practice helps in reducing hospital-acquired infections during IV therapy?

Following hand hygiene procedures is crucial in reducing hospital-acquired infections during IV therapy because it significantly minimizes the transfer of pathogens from healthcare providers to patients. Hand hygiene involves thorough washing of hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after patient contact or handling IV equipment. This practice helps to eliminate harmful microorganisms that can lead to infections, which are particularly concerning in a hospital setting where patients may already have compromised immune systems.

Maintaining proper hand hygiene is a foundational practice in infection control, especially in procedures that involve the insertion of devices like intravenous catheters. By ensuring that healthcare workers' hands are free from pathogens, the risk of introducing bacteria into the bloodstream or the IV site is greatly reduced, leading to better patient outcomes.

In contrast, other practices listed, such as inserting catheters into the femoral site, using non-sterile drapes, and reusing sterile syringes, can increase the potential for infection due to improper technique, contamination, or inadequate aseptic practices.