Nurses rely on several key supplies to maintain hand hygiene:
1. Soap and Water: Used primarily when hands are visibly soiled or after contact with bodily fluids. Soap and water are effective in removing a broad spectrum of pathogens. 2. Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: Convenient and effective for use when hands are not visibly dirty. These sanitizers should contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective. 3. Disposable Towels: Used to dry hands after washing. They help in reducing the spread of pathogens by avoiding the use of communal towels. 4. Hand Lotion or Moisturizer: Frequent handwashing can lead to skin dryness. Using a moisturizer helps maintain the skin’s integrity, reducing the risk of cracks that can harbor bacteria. 5. Gloves: While not a substitute for hand hygiene, gloves provide an additional barrier against pathogens. They must be used correctly and disposed of properly to prevent cross-contamination.
