handwashing

Introduction

Also see hand hygiene.

Indications

• hands that are visibly soiled, or potentially grossly contaminated with dirt or organic material, must be washed with liquid soap & water
• handwashing prevents transmission of infection

* hand antiseptic may be superior to handwashing for infection control if hands not visibly soiled

Procedure

• an effective handwashing technique involves 3 stages: preparation, washing and rinsing, & drying
• handwashing should be of sufficient duration to remove the transient microbial flora (10-15 seconds of soap & friction, preceded by wetting hands & followed by rinsing with running water)
• paper towels recommended for drying hands

Complications

• excessive hand washing may result in hand dermatitis

Notes

• handwashing behavior is difficult to sustain

More general terms

• hand hygiene

Additional terms

• hand antiseptic; hand sanitzer (alcohol-based hand rub)