What should a patient do before removing or inserting contact lenses?

Before removing or inserting contact lenses, it is essential for a patient to wash their hands. This practice is crucial for maintaining eye health and preventing infections. Hands can harbor various bacteria, dirt, and other contaminants that could easily transfer to the lenses during handling. If the lenses are then placed directly on the eye without proper hygiene, this could lead to serious complications, including corneal infections or irritation.

Washing hands with soap and water, followed by thorough drying with a clean towel, is a fundamental step in the contact lens care process. This simple act significantly reduces the risk of introducing pathogens to the eye and ensures a safer experience for the patient when using contact lenses.