Transcript Document

Hand
Hygiene
Handwashing
A Critical Infection Control Issue
OBJECTIVES
At the end of this lesson the student
will:
1. Able to wash hands with 100%
accuracy following procedure
sheet.
2. Understand the basic principles
of aseptic handwashing.
Aseptic Handwashing
Handwashing is a basic task required in any
health occupation.
 Handwashing is generally considered to be
the most important method in preventing
the spread of infection.
 Regular handwashing is recommended for
routine cleansing of the hands when visibly
soiled.

Aseptic Handwashing
Soap is used as a cleaning agent because it
aids in removal of germs.
 Liquid soap should be used, as bar soap can
contain microorganisms
 Warm water should be used, hot water will
burn hands and cold water lessens the
lather.
 Friction helps to rub off pathogens

Aseptic Handwashing
Fingertips must point downward to prevent
water from getting of forearms and running
down to contaminate hands.
 Dry towels must be used to turn the faucet
on and off, wet towels allow passage of
pathogens to the hands.
 Nails harbor dirt and must be cleaned with
the blunt end of an orange stick to prevent
injury.

Handwashing should be
performed:
1.When arriving and leaving work facility
2. Before and after every patient contact
3. Before moving from contaminated body
site to a clean body site
4. Any time hands are contaminated
5. Before applying and after removing gloves
6. Any time gloves are torn or punctured
Handwashing should be performed:
7. Before and after handling specimens
 8. After contact with any soiled item
 9. After picking up item from floor
 10. After personal use of the bathroom
 11. After you cough, sneeze, or use a tissue
 12. Before and after any contact with your
mouth or mucous membrane, such as
eating, drinking, smoking, applying lip
balm, or inserting or removing contact lens.

Hand Hygiene Techniques
1.
Alcohol hand rub
2.
Routine hand wash 10-15 seconds
3.
Aseptic procedures 1 minute
4.
Surgical wash 3-5 minutes
Routine Hand Wash
Repeat procedures until hands are clean
Areas Most Frequently Missed
HAHS © 1999
Hand Care
 Nails
 Rings
 Hand
creams
 Cuts & abrasions
 “Chapping”
 Skin Problems
In Review:
Handwashing is the
simplest, most
effective measure for
preventing
the spread of infection.
QUESTIONS
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