The basic principles of hand hygiene involve cleaning hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) to remove germs and prevent the spread of infections, particularly in healthcare settings.
The “Five Moments for Hand Hygiene” guideline dictates when to perform hand hygiene (e.g., before touching a patient, before aseptic tasks, after body fluid exposure risk, after touching a patient, after touching patient surroundings), and proper technique, including adequate scrubbing or rubbing time, is crucial for effectiveness.
Adherence to these principles significantly reduces health care-associated infections (HAIs), decreases the spread of antimicrobial resistance, and directly protects patients from preventable infections and complications.
Basic Principles of Hand Hygiene
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The “Five Moments for Hand Hygiene”:This framework outlines the critical times when healthcare workers should clean their hands to prevent pathogen transmission:
- Before touching a patient
- Before performing an aseptic task: (like inserting a catheter)
- After a risk of exposure to body fluids
- After touching a patient
- After touching a patient’s surroundings
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Proper Handwashing Technique:
- Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold).
- Apply soap and lather hands by rubbing them together.
- Scrub all surfaces, including between fingers and under nails, for at least 20 seconds.
- Rinse hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
- Wet hands with clean, running water (warm or cold).
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Using Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs (ABHR):
- ABHRs are effective and convenient for when hands are not visibly soiled.
- Apply enough ABHR to cover all hand surfaces.
- Rub hands together until dry.
- Alcohol-based products are often preferred for their accessibility and effectiveness, reducing the time required compared to handwashing.
- ABHRs are effective and convenient for when hands are not visibly soiled.
Impact on Patient Safety
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Prevention of Health Care-Associated Infections (HAIs):Proper hand hygiene is the most effective and least expensive way to prevent HAIs.
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Reduced Spread of Pathogens:Hands of healthcare workers are a primary vehicle for transmitting pathogens from one patient to another. Hand hygiene breaks this chain of transmission.
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Combating Antimicrobial Resistance:By reducing the spread of germs, including multi-drug resistant organisms like MRSA, hand hygiene plays a vital role in controlling antimicrobial resistance.
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Improved Patient Outcomes:Fewer HAIs lead to shorter hospital stays, reduced morbidity, and lower treatment costs.
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Promoting a Culture of Safety:When healthcare facilities prioritize and enforce hand hygiene, it fosters a culture of safety that protects both patients and staff.
