Final answer:
Health care workers must adhere to Standard Precautions at all times to prevent the transmission of infections through consistent handwashing and proper infection control practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Health care workers who are in direct contact with patients should follow Standard Precautions at all times. These precautions are designed to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens and include practices such as thorough handwashing between every patient contact, after removing gloves, after contact with bodily fluids, and before and after invasive procedures. Ensuring proper hand hygiene is part of a comprehensive infection control strategy, which also entails the use of personal protective equipment, sterilization of equipment, and environmental cleanliness to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).