What is the purpose of wearing gloves in a sterile environment?

Wearing gloves in a sterile environment primarily serves to prevent contact with body fluids, thereby reducing the risk of infection and contamination. Gloves act as a barrier that protects both the healthcare provider and the patient from exposure to pathogens that may be present in blood, saliva, or other bodily fluids. This barrier is critical in maintaining the sterility of the environment, especially during surgical procedures or when handling invasive medical devices.

The integrity of the gloves is vital; if they are punctured or torn, they can no longer serve their protective function. Therefore, their main role is to safeguard against the transmission of infectious agents, ensuring a safer work environment and promoting better patient outcomes.

While other options may seem relevant in different contexts—such as enhancing grip on instruments or maintaining warmth—these are not the primary purposes of glove usage in sterile conditions. The focus in such environments is fundamentally about preventing contamination and protecting health.