Indications for Hand Hygiene
what is "moment 1"? Give an example.
Moment 1 = BEFORE initial patient environment contact
appropriate nail length that does not interfere with HH?
nail should not show past the length of the finger
2 main agents/methods for HH?
ABHR (alcohol-based hand rub)
soap & water
How much ABHR should be used?
One to two full pumps—enough for at least 15 seconds of rubbing until dry.
What is the goal of a hand care program?
To maintain skin integrity and prevent dermatitis from frequent hand hygiene.
what is "moment 2"? Give an example.
Moment 2 = BEFORE aseptic procedure
Why are gel polishes discouraged?
They damage nails, causing weakness and brittleness that increase the risk of breaking.
preferred HH method when hands are not visibly soiled?
ABHR (alcohol-based hand rub)
Which areas of the hand are most often missed during hand hygiene?
Fingertips, between fingers, back of hands, and base of thumbs.
Why is maintaining intact skin crucial for infection control?
Damaged skin harbors microorganisms and increases infection risk.
what is "moment 3"? Give an example.
Moment 3 = AFTER body fluid exposure risk
Name four personal factors that can reduce hand hygiene effectiveness.
Long nails, nail polish, artificial nails, and jewelry or watches.
What alcohol concentration is recommended for ABHR?
Approximately 70% alcohol for optimal germicidal efficacy
What should be avoided when wearing gloves?
Touching surfaces in hallways, moving between patients without changing gloves.
How often should moisturizing products be used?
Regularly and frequently throughout shifts to maintain healthy skin and comfort.
what is "moment 4"? Give an example.
Moment 4 = AFTER patient environment contact
Why is “hand hygiene as habit” an important concept?
Routine, ritualized behavior leads to consistent compliance.
How does alcohol kill microorganisms?
By rapidly denaturing their proteins.
Why is hot water not recommended when doing HH with soap & water?
It can irritate and dry the skin, leading to breakdown.
What is the best type of hand cream for staff to use?
A moisturizer with approximately 70% fat content to minimize irritation.
When should patients (and visitors) be encouraged to perform HH? (hint: 3 occasions)
after toileting
before entering/leaving room
prior to eating
How can facilities promote consistent hand hygiene among staff?
integral: champions or role models who promote and hold others accountable
For which infection is soap & water actually more effective than ABHR?
C-difficile
List the key steps for proper handwashing
Wet hands with warm (not hot) water.
Apply soap and lather well.
Rub palms together.
Rub between fingers.
Rub back of each hand.
Clean thumbs and fingertips.
Rinse thoroughly.
Dry with a disposable towel.
Use the towel to turn off the tap.
new staff & staff who have developed skin integrity problems should reach out to who, for what?
Occupational Health, for a skin assessment and recommendations