CDC on Handwashing

The following is a presentation prepared by the CDC:

WHY IS HAND HYGIENE IMPORTANT?

• Infections are a serious problem in healthcare facilities.
• Every year, an estimated 2 million patients get a hospital-related infection. 90,000 die from their infection.

DO YOU USE HAND HYGIENE WHEN YOU SHOULD?

• Healthcare personnel practice hand hygiene about half the time they should.
• Immediately before touching a patient, performing an invasive procedure, or manipulating an invasive device
• Immediately after touching a patient, contaminated items or surfaces, or removing gloves
• After removing gloves
• After touching items or surfaces in the immediate patient care environment, even if you didn't touch the patient while you were there

BUT I DIDN'T TOUCH THE PATIENT. WHY SHOULD I PRACTICE HAND HYGIENE?

• Bacteria can survive for DAYS on patient care equipment and other surfaces.
• Surfaces in the patient care environment – including bed rails, IV pumps, and even computer keyboards – are often contaminated with bacteria.
• It’s important to practice hand hygiene after you leave the room, even if you only touched patient care equipment or other surfaces.

HOW DO I PRACTICE HAND HYGIENE CORRECTLY?

• Apply to palm of one hand (the amount used depends on specific hand rub product).
• Rub hands together, covering all surfaces, focusing in particular on the fingertips and fingernails, until dry.
• Use enough rub to require at least 15 seconds to dry.

HANDWASHING

• Wet hands with water. Apply soap.
• Rub hands together for at least 15 seconds, covering all surfaces, focusing on fingertips and fingernails.
• Rinse under running water and dry with disposable towel.
• Use the towel to turn off the faucet.

The University of Florida has been testing a device they developed that monitors the thoroughness of handwashing: