SURGICAL

HANDWASHING
A Vital Step in Patient Safety

Follow these steps for effective surgical handwashing

Surgical handwashing is a critical procedure to prevent
infection during medical procedures.
Proper technique is essential to eliminate harmful
microorganisms.
Follow these steps for effective surgical hand hygiene.

1 GATHER SUPPLIES:
Show icons of soap, clean water, disposable towels,
and a surgical scrub brush.
Emphasize the importance of using sterile
materials.

2 REMOVE JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES:

Illustrate the removal of rings, watches, and
bracelets.
Explain how these items can harbor germs.

3 WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY:

Use a step-by-step visual guide for handwashing:

a. Wet hands and wrists.

b. Apply antimicrobial soap.
c. Scrub for at least 20 seconds.
d. Pay special attention to nails, cuticles, and between
fingers.
e. Rinse thoroughly.

4 USE A SURGICAL SCRUB BRUSH:

Show the proper technique for using a scrub brush.
Highlight areas that require extra scrubbing, such
as fingertips and nails.

5 RINSE HANDS AND WRISTS:

Demonstrate the rinsing process.
Ensure all soap and debris are removed.

6 DRY HANDS AND WRISTS:

Show the use of disposable towels to dry hands and
wrists.
Avoid using air dryers as they can spread germs.

7 STERILE GLOVES:
Illustrate putting on sterile gloves after
handwashing.
Emphasize maintaining sterility during this step.

8 MAINTAIN STERILE FIELD:

Highlight the importance of not touching anything
unsterile after donning gloves.
Show the surgeon and operating team maintaining
sterility.

8 REPEAT AS NECESSARY:
Remind healthcare professionals to repeat handwashing
between patients or as required by the procedure.

Conclusion:
Surgical handwashing is a crucial step in patient safety.
Proper technique ensures the highest level of infection
prevention.
Regular practice and attention to detail are essential.

Quilang, Sam DMD 3G