5 Questions
What is considered the single most effective method for the prevention of infections?
Hand antisepsis using alcohol hand rub
When is social/routine hand washing indicated?
Before visiting the washroom (toilet)
What is the recommended minimum duration for washing hands with plain soap and water?
15 seconds
When should hand washing be done in a healthcare setting?
Before and after each procedure
What are the steps involved in social hand washing?
Wet hands, apply soap, rub to make lather, rinse under running water
Study Notes
Importance of Hand Hygiene
- Effective hand hygiene is the single most effective method for preventing infections.
Types of Hand Hygiene
- Social/routine hand washing
- Hygienic hand washing
- Surgical hand wash or scrub
- Hand antisepsis using alcohol hand rub
Social/Routine Hand Washing
- Performed with plain soap (non-antimicrobial) and running water for at least 10 seconds
- Involves vigorous, brief rubbing together of all surfaces of lathered hands, followed by rinsing under running water
Indications for Social/Routine Hand Washing
- On arrival at the work place
- Before handling food, eating, and feeding patients
- After visiting the washroom (toilet)
- Before and after each procedure like bathing, examination of the patient, etc...
- When hands are dirty
- Before leaving work
Steps in Social Hand Washing
- Wet hands under a stream of water and apply a recommended amount of hand washing agent to the palm and hands
- If using cake soap, pick up soap after wetting hands
- Rub to make lather
- Hands should be below the elbow
Learn about the different types of hand hygiene including social/routine hand washing, hygienic hand washing, surgical hand wash or scrub, and hand antisepsis using alcohol hand rub as emphasized by the University of Ghana. Proper hand hygiene is crucial for preventing infections in health facilities.
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