In what situation should a CNA use gloves?

Using gloves is essential in situations where there is potential contact with blood or bodily fluids to protect both the patient and the healthcare worker. Bodily fluids can carry pathogens that may lead to infections, and wearing gloves acts as a barrier to minimize this risk. This practice is vital in maintaining infection control and promoting safety in healthcare settings.

While assisting with daily activities or taking vital signs might seem like appropriate times to use gloves, these activities do not inherently involve the risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids unless there is an obvious injury or situation that might cause such contact. Additionally, interacting with patients who have allergies is more about understanding the patient's needs rather than a scenario that would typically require gloves. Therefore, the correct situation to use gloves is specifically when there is a clear risk of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials.