What is an important hygiene practice when changing diapers?

Cleaning the baby's hands afterward is an important hygiene practice when changing diapers because it helps to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. After changing a diaper, the hands of the baby can come into contact with fecal matter, which may harbor pathogens. By washing or cleaning the baby's hands, caregivers can reduce the risk of the baby ingesting harmful microbes, which can lead to infections or illnesses.

This practice emphasizes the importance of maintaining overall hygiene and health for infants, particularly since young children are still developing their immune systems. Proper hygiene practices, including handwashing, are crucial in childcare settings to ensure the well-being of all children, as germs can easily be transmitted in group settings.

In contrast to this correct answer, using scented wipes can introduce fragrances that might irritate the baby's sensitive skin and should not take priority over more essential hygiene practices. Avoiding gloves in a diaper change may expose the caregiver to contaminants, while quickly changing the diaper without cleaning undermines the importance of sanitary methods, risking both the caregiver's and the baby's health.