HANDWASHING - ANSWERS
1) What is the primary form of infection/germ control and prevention?
- Handwashing
2) When is handwashing required?
- Before & after patient care
- Before & after handling Food or drink
- Before handing contacts
- Before & after gloving
- After toileting
- After coughing, sneezing or blowing nose
- After contact with potentially soiled items (germs)
- After picking up objects from the floor
3) What is the purpose of friction in handwashing?
- Friction removes germs
4) How long should handwashing last and why?
- A minimum of 10-15 seconds (20 seconds preferred)
- The longer you wash, the more germs are removed
5) Why should liquid soap be used?
- Bar soap holds germs on the surface
6) What steps should be taken before handwashing?
- Jewelry removed & sleeves rolled up
- Paper towels & liquid soap in place
- Trash receptacle nearby
- Water set to warm temperature
7) What steps should be taken to during handwashing
- Wet hands & apply liquid soap
- Friction for 15 seconds (20 seconds preferred)
- Friction between fingers (interlaced) and nails to palm
- Keep fingers pointed down at all times
- Use liquid soap warm water
- Rinse from wrist to fingertips
8) What steps should be taken after handwashing?
- Keep fingers pointed down at all times (do not shake water off)
- Use paper towel to turn off water (discard)
- Use another paper towel to thoroughly dry hands (discard)