Final answer:
Handwashing is the single most important way to prevent the transmission of infections in a healthcare setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
Handwashing is the single most important way to prevent the transmission of infections in a healthcare setting. Proper hand hygiene practices, including using soap and warm running water, are highly effective in reducing the spread of pathogens. Washing hands before and after patient contact, before eating, after using the toilet, and after coughing or sneezing can significantly decrease the risk of infection. Handwashing helps remove harmful microbes from the hands, preventing their transfer to surfaces or transmission through direct contact with others.