Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate XIV · Infection Control · 02

Hand hygiene

Alcohol-based hand rub is the preferred method unless hands are visibly soiled, when soap and water with at least 15 seconds of rubbing is needed. Clean hands before and after every patient, before gloving and after removing gloves. Keep nails short, skip artificial nails, and avoid petroleum-based lotions because they weaken latex gloves.

High-yield facts · 6

  1. Routine handwashing with soap and water: at least 15 seconds of rubbing.S7
  2. Alcohol-based hand rubs (about 60-95% alcohol) are preferred unless hands are visibly soiled.S7S8
  3. Surgical hand antisepsis: antimicrobial soap scrub for about 2-6 minutes, or an alcohol surgical rub per the manufacturer.S7
  4. Keep nails short; artificial nails and extenders are not worn by clinicians who treat patients.S7
  5. Petroleum-based lotions weaken latex gloves.S7
  6. Perform hand hygiene before and after each patient, before gloving and after removing gloves.S7

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.