Which of the following is the best form of infection control?

Hand washing is considered the best form of infection control because it effectively removes dirt, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens from the skin. It not only cleanses the hands but also disrupts the transmission of infections by physically removing contaminants, especially when soap is used, as it helps break down the oils and dirt that can harbor germs. The action of scrubbing and rinsing is pivotal in minimizing the spread of infections, particularly in environments like early childhood education settings where children are in close contact with each other and frequently put their hands in their mouths.

While options such as using hand sanitizer, wearing gloves, and using disinfectant wipes all have their roles in infection control, none are as comprehensive and effective as hand washing. Hand sanitizers can reduce the number of germs but may not eliminate all types of pathogens, especially if hands are visibly soiled. Wearing gloves can prevent contamination and protect both the caregiver and the child, but they should be used in conjunction with hand washing as they do not substitute for it. Disinfectant wipes are useful for cleaning surfaces but do not address the potential for infection spread through direct hand contact.

Thus, hand washing stands out as the most effective and essential practice for preventing the spread of infections in early childhood settings.