In a long-term care facility, what is a primary action for a nurse to minimize the risk of health care-associated infections (HAIs) among residents?

Rationale: A. Limiting contact during meals is not a practical or evidence-based method to reduce HAIs. Meals are essential for nutrition and socialization, and infection prevention focuses on hand hygiene and environmental cleanliness rather than restricting interactions. B. While PPE is important, infection prevention is year-round, not limited to flu season. PPE must be used based on standard precautions and the specific risk of exposure, not on a seasonal schedule alone. C. While outdoor activities promote overall wellness, they do not directly prevent HAIs, which are primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated hands, equipment, or surfaces in the healthcare environment. D. Hand hygiene is the single most effective action to prevent HAIs. Proper handwashing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers by staff, residents, and visitors removes pathogens and prevents their spread in the facility. It is a cornerstone of infection control and is required by all infection prevention guidelines in healthcare settings.