What is the appropriate action to prevent infection while caring for a child with impetigo?

Using clean gloves during wound care is essential in preventing the spread of infection in a child with impetigo. Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that typically leads to crusted sores, making it crucial to minimize direct contact with the lesions. By wearing clean gloves, caregivers can protect both themselves and the child from potential infection transmission. This action helps reduce the risk of spreading the bacteria to other areas of the child’s skin or to other individuals.

Maintaining sterile technique is not necessary in this context, as impetigo is not a surgical wound and does not require a sterile environment. Droplet precautions are not applicable here since impetigo is primarily spread through direct contact rather than respiratory droplets. Lastly, using cold water during wound care does not contribute to infection prevention; the focus should be on keeping the area clean and covered to avoid further irritation or contamination.