Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CBIC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Proper hand hygiene is a fundamental practice in infection control and is specifically put in place to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Adequate hand hygiene significantly decreases the transmission of pathogens in healthcare settings. It is recognized as one of the most effective measures in preventing HAIs, making it an essential practice rather than a cause of infections.

In contrast, the other factors mentioned can directly contribute to the occurrence of HAIs. For instance, contamination of medical devices is a well-documented issue, as any breach in the sterilization process can lead to catastrophic infections. Similarly, lapses in infection prevention practices, such as neglecting to follow established protocols or guidelines, can create opportunities for pathogens to spread. Finally, the colonization of healthcare personnel refers to the presence of pathogens on healthcare workers, which can lead to the transmission of infections if proper precautions are not taken. Thus, while contamination and lapses in practices can facilitate the spread of infections, proper hand hygiene actively counters these risks.