What is an important practice for staff when assisting residents with topical creams?

Wearing gloves while applying topical creams is a critical practice to ensure both the safety of staff and the residents. Gloves act as a barrier that protects staff from potential exposure to medications, which may contain active ingredients that could be harmful upon contact. Additionally, wearing gloves helps prevent cross-contamination, maintaining a hygienic environment when assisting residents.

This practice is particularly important in a healthcare setting where there may be vulnerable populations with compromised skin integrity or existing medical conditions. It ensures that the application of creams is sanitary and reduces the risk of introducing pathogens into the resident's skin.

Additionally, using gloves safeguards against the inadvertent transfer of topical medications from staff to their own skin or to other surfaces, promoting a safer care environment. This practice reflects the principles of infection control and professional standards in nursing home care, thereby enhancing the overall quality of care provided to residents.