Nursing Procedure: How to Antiseptic Hand Washing

Definition

Hand washing is the act of cleaning one’s hands with the use of any liquid with or without soap for the purpose of removing dirt or microorganisms. It is the most effective measure in reducing the risk of transmitting infectious diseases. It cannot be said too often that hand washing is the most important and most basic technique in preventing and controlling infections. It is the single most effective infection control measure.
Hand washing is under the umbrella of hand hygiene. Hand hygiene is defined by the World Health Organization as a general term that applies to hand washing, antiseptic hand wash, antiseptic hand rub or surgical hand antisepsis.

Terms

To understand this study guide better, familiarize yourself with the terms used:

• Hand Hygiene. It is a general term that applies to hand washing, antiseptic hand wash, antiseptic hand rub, or surgical hand antisepsis
• Hand Washing. It is defined as the washing of hands with plain (i.e., non-antimicrobial) soap and water.
• Antiseptic Hand wash. A term that applies to hand washing with an antimicrobial soap and water.
• Surgical Hand Antisepsis. Commonly called as a surgical hand scrub. This is to remove as many microorganisms from the hands as possible before the sterile procedure.

Goals

The purposes of hand hygiene are:

• Hand washing can prevent infection
• Avoid pathogenic microorganisms and to avoid transmitting them
 

 

Equipment

The following materials or equipment are needed to perform hand washing:

• Soap or detergent
• Warm running water
• Paper towels
• Optional: Antiseptic cleaner, fingernail brush, plastic cuticle stick

 

Nursing Action (Procedures)

Antiseptic Hand wash

Also known as clean technique, includes procedures used to reduce the number of organisms on hands.

1. Gather the necessary supplies. Stand in front of the sink.Wet the hands and wrist area. 
2. Keep hands lower than elbows to allow water to flow towards the fingertips. 
3. Cover all areas of hands with soap. 
4. With firm rubbing and circular motions, wash the palms and backs of the hands, each finger, the knuckles, wrists, and forearms. Continue this friction motion for 30 seconds.
5. Rinse thoroughly with water flowing towards the fingertips.
6. Pat hands dry, beginning with the fingers and moving upward towards forearms, with a paper towel and discard immediately.
7. In the absence of sensors or foot pedal, use another clean paper towel to turn off the faucet.