Washing Hands Quiz - Chapter 15:3 Essentials

Questions and Answers

What is an aseptic technique?

Aseptic technique is a procedure used by medical staff to prevent the spread of infection.

List two reasons for washing the hands.

Handwashing is the most important method used to practice aseptic technique. 2. Handwashing is also the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.

List six times the hands should be washed.

When you arrive at the facility and immediately before leaving the facility. 2. Before and after every patient contact. 3. Anytime the hands become contaminated during a procedure. 4. Before handling any specimen. 5. Before and after any contact with your mouth or mucous membrane. 6. After you cough, sneeze, or use a tissue.

Why is soap used as a cleansing agent?

Soap is used as a cleansing agent because it aids in the removal of germs through its sudsy action and alkali content. Signup and view all the answers

How should the fingertips be pointed while washing hands? Why?

Fingertips should be pointed downward to prevent water from getting on the forearms and contaminating clean hands. Signup and view all the answers

What temperature water should be used? Why?

Warm water should be used because it is less damaging to the skin than hot water and it creates a better lather with soap than cold water. Signup and view all the answers

Why are paper towels used while turning on and off the faucet?

Paper towels are used to prevent contamination of the hands from pathogens on the faucet. Signup and view all the answers

List three surfaces on the hands that must be cleaned.

<ol> <li>Palms. 2. Back/tops of hands. 3. Areas between the fingers.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

Name two items that can be used to clean the nails.

<ol> <li>An orange/cuticle stick. 2. A brush.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

Why are long or artificial fingernails prohibited in most health care facilities?

Long or artificial fingernails can harbor organisms and increase the risk for infection for both the patient and health care worker. Signup and view all the answers

What type of hand washing is recommended by the CDC for hands that are not visibly dirty?

Antiseptic hand rubs. Signup and view all the answers

What type of hand washing is recommended by the CDC for routine cleansing when hands are visibly dirty?

Regular hand washing. Signup and view all the answers

What do most waterless hand cleaners contain?

It contains alcohol. Signup and view all the answers

How long should the hands be rubbed with a waterless hand cleaner?

At least 15 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

How many times can you use a waterless hand cleaner before you need to use soap and water?

6 to 10 times. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Aseptic Technique

Aseptic technique prevents the spread of infection in medical environments.

Importance of Handwashing

Handwashing is the primary method for practicing aseptic technique.
It is the most effective measure to prevent infection transmission.

When to Wash Hands

On arrival and departure from a facility.
Before and after each patient interaction.
After contamination during procedures.
Before handling specimens.
Before and after contact with mouth or mucous membranes (eating, drinking, etc.)
After coughing, sneezing, or using tissues.

Role of Soap

Soap acts as a cleansing agent by removing germs through sudsy action and its alkali content.

Handwashing Technique

Keep fingertips pointed downward to prevent contamination from water running down arms.

Water Temperature

Use warm water to protect skin and enhance soap lather compared to cold water.

Paper Towels Usage

Paper towels are necessary for turning faucets to avoid hand contamination from pathogens on the faucet.

Areas to Clean on Hands

Essential areas include palms, back of hands, and spaces between fingers.

Nail Cleaning Tools

Clean nails can be maintained using an orange/cuticle stick and a brush.

Fingernail Regulations

Long or artificial nails are banned in healthcare settings due to potential pathogen harboring.

Recommended Handwashing by CDC

a. Antiseptic hand rubs for clean hands.
b. Antiseptic hand washing for patients under specific precautions.
c. Regular hand washing for visibly dirty hands.
d. Antiseptic hand washing before invasive procedures.

Waterless Hand Cleaners

Primarily contain alcohol as an active ingredient.

Usage Duration for Waterless Cleaners

Rub hands with waterless hand cleaner for at least 15 seconds.

Limitation on Waterless Cleaner Use

Can be used 6 to 10 times before needing to switch to soap and water.

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Description

Test your knowledge on aseptic techniques and the importance of hand washing in preventing infection. This quiz will cover key definitions and practices that all medical staff should know to ensure a safe environment.