Hand Washing Basics

Study Notes

Hand Washing is a simple but effective way to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
It involves using plain or antimicrobial soap and water to remove dirt, organic material, and microorganisms.

The most effective method to prevent and control the spread of disease-causing microorganisms.

Resident Flora:
- Deeply embedded in the skin.
- Difficult to remove.
- Part of the body's natural defense system.
- Can lead to infections after surgery or invasive procedures.
Transient Flora:
- Found on the surface of the skin.
- Easily transferred to and from the hands.
- A significant cause of cross-infection.
- Easily removed with proper hand hygiene.

Prepare the equipment: This saves time and effort.
Remove watch and jewelry: These items harbor microorganisms.
Roll sleeves above elbows: Prevents the wetting of clothes, which can harbor microorganisms.
Stand at an adequate distance from the sink: This provides a wide margin to prevent contamination.
Turn on the tap:
- Adjust water flow.
- Keep water running throughout the procedure.
- Running water is less likely to harbor microorganisms than stagnant water.
Wet hands and soap with warm water:
- Warm water removes fewer oils from the skin than cold water.
- Suds are better produced with warm water.
- Friction with water and soap creates enough suds.
Apply soap thoroughly: This ensures complete coverage of the hands and wrists.
Rinse soap bar and return to soap dish: To prevent contamination of the soap bar.
Exert pressure with a rotating movement: This removes organisms and persistent substances.
- Clean all areas:
- Palm folds.
- Between fingers and back of hands.
- Under nails (using a hand brush if needed).
- Thumb.
- Wrist.
Rub for at least one minute: To effectively remove microorganisms.
Rinse hands well: This removes any remaining soap.
Dry hands with a towel or tissue: This prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
Apply an emollient or lotion if hands are dry: To prevent skin dryness.
Turn off the tap:
- Use foot or elbow to turn off tap.
- If using hands to turn off tap, use a clean, dry paper towel.

Prepare the needed equipment: This saves time and effort.
Remove watch and jewelry: These items harbor microorganisms.
Roll sleeves to above elbows: Prevents the wetting of clothes, which can harbor microorganisms.
Stand at an adequate distance from the sink: This provides a wide margin to prevent contamination.
Turn the tap on:
- Adjust water flow.
- Keep water running throughout the procedure.
- Running water is less likely to harbor microorganisms than stagnant water.
Wet hands and soap with warm water:
- Warm water removes fewer oils from the skin than cold water.
- Suds are better produced with warm water.
- Friction with water and soap creates enough suds.
Apply soap thoroughly: This ensures complete coverage of the hands and wrists.
Rinse soap bar and return to soap dish: To prevent contamination of the soap bar.
Exert pressure with a rotating movement: This removes organisms and persistent substances.
- Clean all areas:
- Palm folds.
- Between fingers and back of hands.
- Under nails (using a hand brush if needed).
- Thumb.
- Wrist.
Rub for at least one minute: To effectively remove microorganisms.
Rinse hands well: This removes any remaining soap.
Dry hands with a towel or tissue: This prevents the transfer of microorganisms.
Apply an emollient or lotion if hands are dry: To prevent skin dryness.
Turn off the tap:
- Use foot or elbow to turn off tap.
- If using hands to turn off tap, use a clean, dry paper towel.