Like what FatBoy said, you have to grip it hard and not let go, even if it budges. Sometimes when I try to take a pic of it while holding it, the LMB sometimes flops while your holding it (well, that's only if it's not tired out). Just have a really stronge grip on the bass, and it'll be way easy.
Well, I would think they everyone here can grip the fish with their bare hands, but if your still scared then just use gloves for starters, and then go without one in the future.
All you'll really have at the end is like (what LBH said) a chaffed finger, almost like sandpaper...You hand won't bleed, and you obviously won't die. Think of the finger as a "Trophy" to remind yourself you caught some bass!
And welcome!