Which of the following actions is essential before surgical attire is donned?

Washing hands thoroughly before donning surgical attire is essential as it significantly reduces the risk of infection during surgical procedures. Proper hand hygiene is a critical step in maintaining asepsis, which is the absence of bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause infection. By thoroughly cleaning hands, surgical personnel minimize the potential for contaminating themselves, their attire, or the sterile environment they are about to engage in.

This practice is in line with established protocols in surgical settings, emphasizing the importance of handwashing as the first line of defense against surgical site infections. It prepares the surgical team to engage in the procedure with a level of cleanliness that is vital for patient safety and successful outcomes. Other actions such as applying antiseptics, checking instruments, or wearing a mask may also be important in the surgical process, but the foundational step of handwashing precedes these tasks to establish a clean and sterile environment.