Hand Hygiene - Handwashing Saves Lives

People should wash their hands before eating, after using the restroom, or when their hands are visibly dirty/soiled (especially if contact with blood or bodily fluids has been made). If the preceding do not apply, handwashing can be substituted by using an alcohol-based hand rub or gel.

Everyone knows washing hands regularly is important to a healthy lifestyle and healthcare workers are no exception. Although healthcare professional receive training, not all clinicians practice correct hand washing techniques.

For some workers it is a behavioral issue while for others it is because washing frequently becomes painful due to skin problems. Did you know total hand washing time should be at least 15 seconds? It is easy to see how proper technique can be avoided when people are busy or in a rush. I have to admit that I did not adhere to proper handwashing technique until an infection control nurse taught me the correct way. There are still many who do not know the correct method and for this reason education is one of the most important aspects of improving hand hygiene.

The hands are the main transmitters of microorganisms. Regular handwashing is the effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases including respiratory illnesses. Even regular washing with non-medicated soap will help prevent healthcare-associated infections as it helps in the removal of microorganisms. Using soap containing Triclosan or Chlorhexidine will be more effective as it can reduce the number of certain pathogens on the hands due to their antimicrobial properties. It is important to note that excessive handwashing and utilizing antimicrobial soap contributes to dehydrating and breaking down the skin. For this reason, it is recommended to combine handwashing while utilizing alcohol-based antiseptic for removing microorganisms on the hands. Localizing harmful pathogens is the best method of reducing healthcare-associated infections for hospitals.

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- Interview with Infection Prevention & Control Nurses on Handwashing (video)
- Glossary & Definitions

- Number of Microorganisms on Your Hand. - 5/18/2008
- Soap & Water... an Enemy to Healthy Skin? - 5/5/2008