According to the CDC, which of the following should be done if a medical assistant's hands are visibly soiled?

When hands are visibly soiled, it is crucial to use soap and water for cleaning. This method is effective because it physically removes dirt, organic material, and pathogens from the skin's surface. The CDC recommends scrubbing for a minimum of 15 seconds to ensure that the soap can effectively break down any dirt and microbes present. This thorough approach is necessary to reduce the risk of infection and maintain a safe environment in healthcare settings.

Other methods, such as using hand sanitizer or wipes, are not effective in such situations. Hand sanitizers are less effective against certain types of germs when hands are dirty or greasy, and alcohol pads do not provide the same cleaning benefit as washing with soap and water. Additionally, relying on gloves does not eliminate the need for hand hygiene when hands are soiled because gloves can become contaminated. Thus, the action of washing hands with soap and water is essential for proper infection control in this scenario.