Hand Washing

Step 1

Introduce yourself and identify the patient.

Step 2

Turn on the water and adjust the flow so the water is warm.

Step 3

Wet hands thoroughly, keeping hands and forearms lower than elbows. Avoid splashing water on your uniform.

Step 4

Apply a palm-sized amount of hand soap.

Step 5

Perform hand hygiene using plenty of lather and friction for at least 20 seconds.

Palm to Palm

Rub hands palm to palm.

Back of Hands

Rub the back of the right and left hand with fingers interlaced.

Interlaced Fingers

Rub palm to palm with fingers interlaced.

Thumbs

Perform rotational rubbing of the left and right thumbs.

Fingertips

Rub fingertips against the palm of the opposite hand.

Wrists

Rub both wrists.

Repeat Sequence

Repeat the entire rubbing sequence at least two times.

Step 6

Keep fingertips pointing downward throughout the procedure.

Step 7

Clean under the fingernails.

Step 8

Rinse hands with water while keeping fingertips pointing downward so water runs off the fingertips. Do not shake water from your hands.

Step 9

Dry hands thoroughly from fingers to wrists using a paper towel or air dryer. Dispose of the paper towel(s).

Step 10

Use a new paper towel to turn off the water. Dispose of the paper towel.

Step 11

Do not lean against the sink or touch the inside of the sink during the handwashing process.

Time Requirement

Perform hand hygiene with friction for at least 20 seconds.

Key Position

Keep hands and forearms lower than elbows while washing.

Important Reminder

Keep fingertips pointing downward during washing and rinsing.