What Types of Hand Sanitizers are Commonly Used?
There are primarily two types of hand sanitizers used in healthcare settings: alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers usually contain 60-95% alcohol and are effective against a wide range of pathogens. Non-alcohol-based sanitizers may contain agents like benzalkonium chloride but are generally less effective compared to their alcohol-based counterparts.
When Should Nurses Use Hand Sanitizer?
Nurses should use hand sanitizer in several key situations:
- Before and after direct contact with patients.
- Before performing any invasive procedures.
- After touching potentially contaminated surfaces or equipment.
- After removing gloves.
The use of hand sanitizer is particularly important when soap and water are not readily available.
How to Properly Use Hand Sanitizer?
Proper technique is vital for hand sanitizer to be effective. Nurses should:
1. Apply a sufficient amount of hand sanitizer to cover all surfaces of their hands.
2. Rub hands together, covering all surfaces, including the back of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
3. Continue rubbing until hands are dry, which usually takes around 20 seconds.
Benefits of Hand Sanitizer Over Soap and Water
While washing hands with soap and water is generally the gold standard for hand hygiene, hand sanitizers offer several advantages:
- Quick and easy to use.
- Convenient for situations where soap and water are unavailable.
- Effective in reducing microbial counts on hands.Limitations and Precautions
Despite its benefits, hand sanitizer has limitations:
- Ineffective against certain types of germs, such as norovirus and Clostridium difficile.
- Less effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
- Can cause skin irritation or dryness with frequent use.Nurses should have access to moisturizers and should alternate between handwashing and sanitizer use to maintain skin health.
Role in Public Health Initiatives
Hand sanitizer is integral to broader
public health initiatives, especially in settings like hospitals and clinics. Its use can significantly reduce the incidence of
healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Conclusion
Hand sanitizer is an essential tool in the nursing profession for maintaining hand hygiene and preventing the spread of infections. Understanding when and how to use it effectively, along with recognizing its limitations, can greatly enhance its benefits in clinical settings.
