How can medical assistants contribute to infection control in the office?

Medical assistants play a crucial role in infection control within healthcare settings. They contribute significantly by implementing standard precautions and practicing good hygiene. Standard precautions are guidelines that are designed to prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare environments. This includes proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks, and following cleaning protocols for surfaces and medical equipment. By adhering to these practices, medical assistants help to minimize the risk of spreading infections among patients and staff, thereby maintaining a safer healthcare environment.

The other options do not align with the primary responsibilities of a medical assistant in infection control. Providing disinfectants to patients is not typically within their role and does not address procedures for preventing infection within the office setting. Performing surgeries even under supervision is beyond the scope of a medical assistant's duties, as they are not trained to perform surgical procedures. Recommending over-the-counter medications falls under the purview of licensed healthcare providers, and although medical assistants may provide information about medications, they do not have the authority to make recommendations independently. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the active involvement of medical assistants in essential infection control measures.