HOSA Hand Washing

What is Aseptic Technique?

A Method followed to prevent the spread of germs or pathogens.

List 2 reasons for washing the hands.

1. Helps prevent and control the spread of pathogens from one person to another.

2. Helps protect the healthcare provider from disease.

List 6 times when the hands should be washed

1. Before Touching the patient

2. Before a clean or aseptic procedure.

3. After body fluid exposure or risk of exposure

4. After touching the patient

5. After touching the patients’ surroundings

6. When you arrive at the facility and before leaving.

Why is Soup used as a cleaning agent?

It aids in the removal of germs thought its sudsy action and Alakli

How Should the fingertips be pointed while washing hands?

Pointed Downward

Why should the fingertips be pointed down while washing hands?

Prevents water from getting on the forearms and then running down to contaminate the clean hands

What temperature water should be used?

Warm Water

Why should warm water be used?

Less damaging on the skin than hot water, creates a better lather with soap than cold water does

Why are paper towels used while turning on and off the faucet?

Prevents contamination of the hands from pathogens on the faucet

List 3 surfaces on the hands that must be cleaned.

1. The Palms

2. The back/ Tops of the hands

3. Areas between the fingers

Name 2 items that can be used to clean the nails

1. An Orange/ Cuticle Stick

2. A brush

Why are long or artificial nails Prohibited in most health care facilities?

Long nails can harbor organisms and increase the risk of infection for both patient and healthcare provider

What type of handwashing is recommended when hands are not visibly dirty or are not soiled with blood or body fluids?

Antiseptic Hand rubs

What type of handwashing is recommended when caring for a patient on specific organism transmission - based precautions

Antiseptic handwashing

What type of handwashing is recommended when hands are visibly dirty or solid with blood or other body fluids

Regular Handwashing

What type of handwashing is recommended prior to invasive procedures

Antiseptic hand washing

What do most waterless hand cleaners contain?

at least 60% to 90% alcohol

How long should the hands be rubbed with a waterless hand cleanser?

at least 20 to 30 seconds

How many times can you use a waterless hand cleaner before you need to use soap and water?

6-10 cleanings