Which statement best defines the role of gloves during phlebotomy?

The role of gloves during phlebotomy is primarily to serve as a barrier between healthcare workers and potentially infectious materials, thereby reducing the risk of transmission of pathogens. Wearing gloves is a critical standard precaution in any procedure that involves exposure to blood and bodily fluids.

The statement related to gloving and nonprotein-based hand lotion highlights an important practice. While gloves are used for protection, the lotions or creams applied to hands prior to donning gloves can affect the integrity and effectiveness of the gloves, particularly if they are not compatible with the materials used in glove production. This statement reinforces awareness around maintaining glove integrity and enhancing safety during phlebotomy procedures.

Other statements such as gloves being used multiple times or being optional are misleading and do not emphasize the importance of infection control. Gloves are meant to be single-use for safety reasons, and they are not optional; they are a crucial part of standard precautions. The mention that gloves have no effect on reducing transmission directly contradicts their primary purpose, which is to protect both the healthcare provider and the patient from potential infections.