A mother is concerned about her child contracting pink eye. What preventive measure is most effective?

The most effective preventive measure against pink eye, or conjunctivitis, particularly when it is caused by infectious agents, is good handwashing and contact precautions. This practice addresses the primary modes of transmission of the pathogens responsible for pink eye, which are often viral or bacterial.

Hand hygiene is crucial because it helps remove pathogens that may be on the hands after touching contaminated surfaces or even the eyes themselves. Encouraging children to wash their hands frequently, especially before eating or after using the restroom, significantly reduces their risk of contracting infections. In addition, teaching children to avoid touching their eyes and keeping personal items, like towels, separate can further minimize the risk of spreading the infection to others.

While antibiotic eye drops may be appropriate after a diagnosis of bacterial conjunctivitis, their use does not serve as a preventive measure for pink eye transmission. Sanitizing toys is also beneficial but may not address hand-to-eye transmission effectively. Keeping a child out of day care can help prevent spreading the infection if they are already infected, but it does not prevent the initial contraction of pink eye. In contrast, promoting good hygiene practice is a proactive measure that can effectively prevent pink eye in healthy children.