During phlebotomy procedures, what is the primary purpose of wearing gloves?

The primary purpose of wearing gloves during phlebotomy procedures is to protect the phlebotomist from exposure to the patient's blood. Gloves serve as a barrier that minimizes the risk of transmission of bloodborne pathogens, infectious agents, and contaminants that can occur when handling bodily fluids. Wearing gloves is critical for maintaining the health and safety of healthcare workers, ensuring that they are not susceptible to infections or other adverse health outcomes from the blood of patients.

While maintaining sterility of equipment and complying with legal requirements are also important aspects of phlebotomy, the primary focus of wearing gloves centers on personal protective measures. Improving patient comfort, while a valuable goal, is not directly related to the primary purpose of glove usage in this context. The use of gloves is a fundamental part of standard precautions that prioritize the health and safety of both the patient and the healthcare provider during invasive procedures like blood draws.