Which of the following are steps surgical team members can take to avoid spreading infection to the patient?

The correct answer encompasses all the listed practices because they each contribute significantly to infection control in a surgical setting.

Keeping fingernails short is important as longer nails can harbor bacteria and make it difficult to maintain cleanliness. Short nails allow for easier hand washing and minimize the risk of bacteria being transferred to the surgical site.

Wearing gloves serves as a barrier to protect both the surgical team and the patient from potential pathogens. Gloves help prevent direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids, which could transmit infections.

Frequent hand washing is a fundamental practice in infection control. It removes dirt, debris, and microorganisms from the hands, significantly reducing the chance of spreading infections to the patient. Hand hygiene is widely recognized as one of the most effective methods to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

Since each of these steps plays a crucial role in maintaining sterility and preventing infections, opting for all of them as a collective strategy for infection control is essential for ensuring patient safety in surgical environments.