Which item is essential to help minimize cross-contamination between patients?

Single-use items are essential in minimizing cross-contamination between patients because they are designed for one-time use and are discarded immediately after a single procedure. This practice helps ensure that pathogens or contaminants from one patient do not get transferred to another, significantly reducing the risk of infections.

In contrast, reusable gloves, while important for protecting healthcare providers and patients, can still carry potential contaminants if not properly cleaned or disposed of after each use. Standard face masks serve to protect both staff and patients from respiratory droplets but do not directly address contamination of instruments or surfaces. Regular dental tools, if reused without adequate sterilization, can be a source of cross-contamination. Thus, the emphasis on using single-use items effectively addresses the issue of preventing cross-contamination in clinical settings.