Hi led,
Namaste :)
Yes in my opinion grounding and protection are both important as are our intent and mindfulness during a session. Negative energy can travel both ways too; so it is important to keep any personal energy out of the way :)
Directly after a Reiki session I use the dry bathing technique that sensei Usui taught his students to cleanse. Smudging is also effective as are hot salt baths
Gentle Blessings
Helen