OT502: Hand Hygiene CDC

The most common mode of transmission of pathogens is via ____

Hands

What is the single most important factor in preventing the spread of pathogens and antibiotic resistance in healthcare setting?

Clean hands

CDC estimates that each year nearly ______ patients in the U.S. get an infection in hospitals

2 million

According to Semmelweis, washing one’s hands with ____ is better than with plain soap and water

Antiseptic agent

What are the four main types of hand hygiene in healthcare?

Handwashing

Antiseptic handwashing

Alcohol-based handrub

Surgical hand hygiene/antiseptis

If hands are not visibly soiled, use ______

Alcohol-based handrub

If hands are visibly dirty, use

Handwashing

Which hand hygiene technique is best at killing bacteria?

Alcohol-based handrub

Which hand hygiene technique is the least damaging to the skin?

Alcohol-based handrub

Which hand hygiene technique reduces the time needed for hand disinfection?

Alcohol-based handrub

Handrub or Handwashing: Apply to palm of one hand, rub hands together covering all surfaces until dry

Handrub

Handrub or Handwashing: Wet hands with water, apply soap, rub hands together for at least 15 seconds, rinse, and dry

Handwashing

Natural nail tips should be kept to ______ in length

¼ inch

True/False: It’s okay to wear false nails when working with high risk patients

False

What should you do after using an alcohol-based handrub so that you do not catch on fire?

Let it dry!

What are some tips for improving hand hygiene in HCWs?