Before and after touching a patient.
After contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
Before performing invasive procedures.
After removing gloves.
After using the restroom.
Before eating or handling food.
Using soap and water is particularly important when hands are visibly soiled or after contact with
Clostridium difficile or other spore-forming organisms.
Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold).
Apply soap and lather by rubbing hands together, covering all surfaces (backs of hands, between fingers, under nails).
Scrub for at least 20 seconds, about the time it takes to hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice.
Rinse hands thoroughly under running water.
Dry hands using a clean towel or air dryer.
Use a towel to turn off the faucet if available.
Advantages of Soap and Water Over Hand Sanitizers
While
alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective in many scenarios, soap and water have advantages in certain situations:
More effective at removing certain types of germs, such as
norovirus and
Cryptosporidium.
Better at removing dirt, grease, and organic material from hands.
No risk of developing resistance, unlike some concerns with overuse of sanitizers.
Challenges and Solutions in Promoting Hand Hygiene
Despite its importance, maintaining consistent hand hygiene can be challenging. Some common barriers include: Lack of time during busy shifts.
Skin irritation from frequent washing.
Inadequate access to sinks and soap.
Solutions to these challenges include:
Installing more handwashing stations in convenient locations.
Providing high-quality, moisturizing soaps to reduce skin irritation.
Educating staff about the importance of hand hygiene and incorporating it into routine clinical practice.
Conclusion
Hand hygiene with soap and water is a cornerstone of
nursing practice, playing a crucial role in preventing healthcare-associated infections. By understanding when and how to wash hands effectively, nurses can significantly enhance the safety and quality of care provided to patients. Overcoming challenges in hand hygiene requires a multifaceted approach, including education, improved facilities, and supportive workplace policies.
