Handwashing

The flu, colds, and other germs and illnesses can be spread by simple skin-toskin contact. Because nurses work with several patients, it is very easy for them to transport germs from one patient to another. By properly washing their hands, nurses can prevent the spread of germs from patient to patient. Proper hand washing by nurses can reduce the overall risk of infection to patients. When nurses wash their hands using the proper technique before they touch a patient, they reduce the risk of spreading germs and illnesses from patient to patient. Good hand washing rid the skin of bacteria and viruses and can reduce the likelihood that nurses will become sick themselves. Nurses should wash their hands before touching a patient. They should also wash their hands immediately after using the bathroom, blowing their nose, or touching anything that is considered contaminated. Proper hand washing technique calls for washing hands by lathering and using friction for a full fifteen seconds. Teach Your Staff Proper Hand Washing 1. Wet your hands using warm, running water. Add soap. 2. During the hand washing process, rub your hands vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds, paying special attention to the backs of your hands, wrists, in between your fingers and underneath your fingernails. 3. Rinse well while leaving the water running. 4. With the water continuing to run, use a single-use towel and pat your hands dry. 5. Turn off the water faucet using the paper towel covering your clean hands to prevent recontamination.