Hand hygiene is a simple action that serves as a powerful defense mechanism against the transmission of infectious diseases. Pathogens like bacteria and viruses can easily spread from surfaces to your hands, and then into your body or onto others. Following a precise, ordered technique ensures all hand surfaces are adequately cleaned. Without adhering to this protocol, the process may only remove superficial dirt, leaving disease-causing microorganisms behind.
Preparing for the Wash
The process begins by wetting the hands with clean, running water. Water temperature does not significantly affect germ removal. Running water is important because standing water may harbor microorganisms that could recontaminate the hands. Following wetting, apply an adequate amount of soap to generate a rich lather that covers all hand surfaces. The combination of water and soap breaks down the fatty membranes of pathogens, allowing them to be washed away during subsequent steps.
The Detailed Scrubbing Technique
Once hands are lathered, the mechanical scrubbing action begins, which must last for a minimum of 20 seconds. Start by rubbing the palms together to distribute the soap thoroughly. Next, scrub the back of one hand with the palm of the other, using interlaced fingers to clean the spaces between them. Repeat this process on the opposite hand to address both dorsal surfaces and finger crevices.
Generate friction by rubbing the palms together with the fingers interlaced, focusing on the sides and bases of the fingers. Perform a rotational rubbing action around each thumb, clasped within the opposite hand, as thumbs are often missed. Clean under the fingernails by rubbing the fingertips of one hand against the palm of the opposite hand. This friction removes debris and microorganisms trapped beneath the nails. Maintaining a steady, thorough pace throughout these movements is necessary to achieve the recommended duration.
Finalizing the Process
After the full scrubbing time has elapsed, rinse the hands thoroughly under clean, running water to wash away dislodged germs and soap residue. Complete rinsing is important because remaining soap can cause skin irritation or trap microorganisms, compromising the hygiene process. The final step involves drying the hands completely, ideally using a clean, single-use paper towel or an air dryer. Wet hands are more susceptible to recontamination.
Avoid using a shared cloth towel or allowing hands to air-dry naturally, as this can reintroduce germs to the cleaned surfaces. Complete the procedure by using the clean, dry towel to turn off the faucet handles before discarding it. This barrier prevents immediate recontamination, as the faucet was touched with dirty hands at the beginning of the process.