From the Guidelines
Hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and the most effective method involves using alcohol-based products, which have been shown to be superior to soap and water with a compliance rate approximately 25% higher, as demonstrated in the 2023 study published in Ca-A Cancer Journal for Clinicians 1.
Importance of Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is essential for protecting both personal and public health. It involves removing germs, bacteria, and viruses that can cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious infections.
Effective Hand Hygiene Techniques
The most effective technique involves:
- Wetting hands with clean water
- Applying soap
- Lathering all surfaces including between fingers and under nails
- Scrubbing for at least 20 seconds
- Rinsing thoroughly
- Drying with a clean towel or air dryer When soap and water aren't available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol provide a convenient alternative, though they don't eliminate all types of germs 1.
Key Moments for Hand Hygiene
The World Health Organization's My Five Moments for Hand Hygiene campaign emphasizes key moments for performing hand hygiene, including:
- Before touching a patient
- Before cleaning/aseptic procedures
- After body fluid exposure/risk of such exposure
- After touching a patient
- After touching a patient’s surroundings
Benefits of Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene has been shown to significantly decrease the rates of health care-associated infections, making it a crucial practice in healthcare settings 1.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite its importance, hand hygiene compliance rates are often low, rarely exceeding 70% in high-income countries and much lower in low-income countries. To improve compliance, providing personnel with individual containers of alcohol-based hand rubs, feedback regarding hand-hygiene adherence, and making hand hygiene more accessible than sinks or other handwashing facilities can be effective strategies 1.
From the Research
Hand Hygiene Benefits
The benefits of hand hygiene are numerous and well-documented. Some of the key advantages include:
- Reduction in the transmission of pathogenic microorganisms to patients and personnel in healthcare settings 2
- Prevention of healthcare-associated infections and cross-infection between patients 3
- Protection of healthcare workers from occupational irritants and allergies that may pose obstacles to proper hand hygiene 2
- Maintenance of healthy skin integrity, which is essential for preventing the spread of microorganisms 4
Importance of Hand Hygiene in Healthcare
Hand hygiene is a crucial aspect of infection control in healthcare settings. Studies have shown that improved hand hygiene practices can reduce the spread of diseases, including COVID-19 5. Additionally, hand hygiene is essential for preventing the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance 6.
Best Practices for Hand Hygiene
To maximize the benefits of hand hygiene, it is essential to follow best practices, including:
- Using appropriate hand hygiene products, such as alcohol-based hand sanitizers and soap and water 2, 3
- Drying hands thoroughly after washing, as hand drying is integral to effective hand hygiene 4
- Keeping up to date with evidence-based guidelines for hand hygiene 3
- Making hand washing a habitual practice, such as upon entering an establishment or before starting work 5