Why is it important to wear gloves during a phlebotomy procedure?

Wearing gloves during a phlebotomy procedure is crucial, particularly for protecting the phlebotomist from exposure to the patient's blood. Gloves act as a barrier against bloodborne pathogens and biological materials that may pose a risk of infection. This is important not only for the safety of the healthcare worker but also helps to prevent the potential transmission of infectious diseases that may be present in the patient’s blood.

While the other reasons provided, such as preventing sample contamination and maintaining equipment sterility, are relevant to the overall procedure, the primary and most critical reason for glove use revolves around personal safety and infection control for healthcare workers. In medical settings, minimizing exposure to bodily fluids is a standard precaution that significantly reduces the risk of occupational exposure to diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and other infectious agents.