Hand Hygiene (Using Alcohol Based Handrubs)

Hand Hygiene (Using Alcohol Based Handrubs)

Equipment
■ Alcohol-based handrub.
■ Hand moisturizer (optional).

Assessment
■ Inspect the condition of your nails (no longer than 1/4 in. from the fingertips, preferably no polish, definitely no chipped polish or artificial nails).
■ Be Safe! Check your hands for breaks in the skin.

Key Points
■ Be Safe! Use alcohol-based handrubs when hands are not visibly soiled and when certain pathogens are suspected.
■ Bare your hands and forearms. Push your sleeves above your wrists. Remove your jewelry and wristwatch.
■ Apply a sufficient quantity (at least 3 mL) of the handrub solution to cover the hands and wrists.
■ Vigorously rub the solution into the hands and fingers for 15 to 30 seconds (or as long as it takes to sing Happy Birthday), interlacing fingers, rubbing around each finger and thumb, including under the nails; and rubbing the backs and palms of the hands in a circular motion until the solution is completely dry.

Documentation
■ Hand hygiene is a responsibility of all healthcare providers. It does not require documentation.

Rub vigorously, covering all surfaces of the hand and fingers