Which procedure is essential for minimizing infection during a patient examination?

Using sterile equipment and proper hand hygiene is crucial for minimizing infection during a patient examination. This practice ensures that any instruments or tools that come into contact with the patient's eye or surrounding areas are free of contaminants, which helps prevent potential infections. Proper hand hygiene, including thorough washing and the use of hand sanitizers, reduces the transfer of bacteria and viruses from the healthcare provider to the patient and vice versa, further enhancing safety.

Maintaining a clean and sterile environment protects patients, especially those who may already be at higher risk for infections due to existing eye conditions or compromised immune systems. This procedure is a standard part of infection control protocols in any healthcare setting, including ophthalmology, and is foundational to patient safety and care quality.