According to medical-surgical nursing, which is the most important universal precaution and technique for infection control and prevention?

Correct option is B

Sol. Hand hygiene is considered the most essential and effective method for preventing infections in healthcare settings. It helps stop the transmission of microorganisms from person to person or from contaminated surfaces.
Explanation of each option: • (a) Ventilation – While proper airflow reduces airborne infections, it is a supportive measure and not a direct personal precaution. • (b) Hand hygiene – Correct. Regular hand washing or sanitization is the most critical step in infection prevention across all healthcare settings. • (c) Disinfection – Refers to cleaning instruments or surfaces, not a universal personal technique applicable in all situations. • (d) Use of masks – Important for preventing respiratory transmission, but hand hygiene remains the core universal technique for all types of infections.