As the medical assistant goes from patient to patient performing clinical
procedures, such as taking vital signs and assisting the physician, the potential for transmitting
disease is high if the medical assistant does not follow protective measures such as
handwashing, sanitization, and proper handling of medical waste. Thorough handwashing and/
or use of alcohol rubs by all medical personnel before each patient contact is one of the most
effective ways to combat nosocomial infections. Nosocomial infections are those that occur
as a result of treatment in a health care facility (e.g., hospital, outpatient treatment center).
Infection control and medical and surgical asepsis are crucial in medical facilities to prevent
the spread of disease and infection. Understanding and following the guidelines for breaking the
“ chain of infection ”protects not only the patients and other health care workers in the facility
but also the medical assistant.
