What Are the Recommended Methods for Hand Hygiene?
There are two primary methods for hand hygiene in nursing: handwashing with
soap and water and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Handwashing is essential when hands are visibly soiled, while alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective for routine decontamination when hands are not visibly dirty.
Before and after touching a patient
Before performing an
aseptic task After exposure to bodily fluids
After touching patient surroundings
Before and after wearing gloves
Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
Rub hands together to form a lather, covering all surfaces, including the back of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
Scrub for at least 20 seconds.
Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Apply the product to the palm of one hand.
Rub hands together, covering all surfaces, until hands feel dry.
Use a sufficient amount of sanitizer to keep hands wet for at least 20 seconds.
High workload and time constraints
Skin irritation from frequent handwashing
Inadequate access to hand hygiene supplies
Lack of awareness or training on proper hand hygiene techniques
Lead by example and demonstrate proper hand hygiene
Educate colleagues and patients about the importance of hand hygiene
Ensure easy access to
hand hygiene supplies Participate in hand hygiene auditing and feedback programs
Conclusion
Hand hygiene is a simple yet vital practice in nursing that plays a significant role in preventing infections and ensuring patient safety. By adhering to recommended hand hygiene practices and promoting a culture of compliance, nurses can significantly reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections and improve overall patient outcomes.
