Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Exam Practice Question

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Handwashing is the most critical aspect of infection control procedures as it effectively removes pathogens from hands, preventing their spread. This practice is essential in various settings, including healthcare, to protect both staff and patients.

Decontamination (A) is important but typically involves a broader process of cleaning and may not eliminate all pathogens. Disinfection (B) kills many harmful microorganisms but does not necessarily ensure complete safety. Sanitization (D) reduces the number of germs to safe levels, which may not be sufficient in high-risk environments. Sterilization (E) eliminates all forms of microbial life but is often not feasible for routine hand hygiene.