Effective Handwashing

WHY WHY Should We Wash Our Hands? ? ? ?

“It is known that handwashing causes a significant reduction in the carriage of potential pathogens on the hands.”

Handwash(ing): A process for the removal of soil and transient microorganisms from the hands.

Hand Antisepsis: A process for the removal or destruction of transient microorganisms.

Antimicrobial Soap: u A soap containing an ingredient with in- vitro and in-vivo activity against skin flora.

Health Care Personnel Hand wash: u A broad-spectrum, anti- microbial preparation that is fast-acting, non-irritating, and designed for frequent use that reduces the number of transient flora on intact skin to a baseline level.

Transient Flora: u Microorganisms isolated from the skin but not demonstrated to be consistently present in the majority of persons. u A.K.A. “contaminating flora or non colonizing flora.”

The decision regarding when hand washing should occur depends on: u The intensity of contact with patients. u The degree of contamination that is likely to occur with that contact. u The susceptibility of patients to infection. u The procedure to be performed. WHEN Should We Wash Our Hands?

u When visibly soiled u Before and after patient contact u After contact with a source of microorganisms u After removing gloves Hands must be washed thoroughly with soap and water... WHEN Should We Wash Our Hands?

u Before the performance of invasive procedures. u When persistent antimicrobial activity on the hands is desired. u When it is important to reduce numbers of resident skin flora in addition to transient microorganisms. WHEN Should We Wash Our Hands?

HOW Should We Wash Our Hands? ÊWet hands with running water. ËApply soap. Thoroughly distribute soap over all hand surfaces. ÌVigorously rub hands together for seconds. ÍRinse soap. ÎDry hands with a disposable towel. ÏTurn water off using a disposable towel (unless foot operated).

A Few Helpful Tips... u Be sure to thoroughly wash all skin surfaces. u Pay close attention to hard-to-reach areas: –Between the fingers –Finger tips –Under the nails u Use a nail brush if necessary warm u Use warm water … not too hot, not too cold

A Few Other Suggestions... Lotions Lotions may be used to prevent skin dryness.Jewelry Total bacterial counts are higher when rings are worn.

Alcohol Gel Waterless Hand Antiseptics u Use high concentrations of alcohol to provide hand antisepsis –Usually 60-65% ethyl alcohol u Do not require water u Do not require hand drying with a towel