Hand hygiene is the process of removing or destroying harmful microorganisms on the hands. It is the single most important intervention to prevent the spread of infection.
Nurses are at high risk for exposure to harmful microorganisms because they come into contact with many patients, their bodily fluids, and contaminated equipment. Nurses also play a vital role in preventing the spread of infection to other patients, their families, and healthcare workers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified five key moments when hand hygiene is essential:
- Before touching a patient
- Before a clean procedure
- After a clean procedure or body fluid exposure risk
- After touching a patient
- After touching a patient’s surroundings
Benefits of Good Hand Hygiene for Nurses
Good hand hygiene can help nurses to:
- Reduce their risk of getting sick
- Protect their patients from infection
- Prevent the spread of infection to other healthcare workers and visitors
- Improve patient outcomes
Barriers to Hand Hygiene Compliance
There are a number of barriers to hand hygiene compliance, including:
- Lack of time
- Lack of awareness of the importance of hand hygiene
- Inconvenience
- Skin irritation
- Access to hand hygiene facilities
Strategies for Improving Hand Hygiene Compliance
There are a number of strategies that can be used to improve hand hygiene compliance, including:
- Education and training
- Making hand hygiene products and facilities readily available
- Creating a culture of hand hygiene in the workplace
- Using electronic hand hygiene monitoring systems
Hand Hygiene Training and Education
All healthcare workers should receive training and education on hand hygiene. This training should include information on the importance of hand hygiene, how to wash hands properly, and when to use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Hand Hygiene Products and Resources
A variety of hand hygiene products and resources are available to help healthcare workers practice good hand hygiene. These products and resources include:
- Soap and water
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Hand washing sinks
- Hand hygiene posters and reminders
The Importance of Hand Hygiene for Patient Safety
Hand hygiene is one of the most important interventions to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings. By practicing good hand hygiene, nurses can help to protect their patients from infection and improve patient outcomes.
Call to Action for Nurses to Make Hand Hygiene a Priority
Nurses should make hand hygiene a priority in their daily practice. By following the 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene and using proper hand hygiene techniques, nurses can help to protect themselves, their patients, and other healthcare workers from infection.
FAQs
Q.What is the difference between hand washing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizer?
Hand washing with soap and water is the most effective way to remove harmful microorganisms from the hands. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used when soap and water are not readily available. However, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is not as effective as hand washing at removing all types of microorganisms, such as Clostridium difficile spores.
Q.How often should I wash my hands?
You should wash your hands at the 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene:
- Before touching a patient
- Before a clean procedure
- After a clean procedure or body fluid exposure risk
- After touching a patient
- After touching a patient’s surroundings
You should also wash your hands if they are visibly soiled or wet.
Q.What are the most common mistakes people make when washing their hands?
The most common mistakes people make when washing their hands include:
- Not washing their hands long enough. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Not scrubbing all surfaces of their hands. Be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Not rinsing their hands thoroughly. Be sure to rinse all of the soap off of your hands.
- Not drying their hands completely. Wet hands can spread germs.
Q.How can I encourage my colleagues to practice good hand hygiene?
You can encourage your colleagues to practice good hand hygiene by:
- Setting a good example. Be sure to wash your hands at the 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene.
- Talking to your colleagues about the importance of hand hygiene.
- Reminding your colleagues to wash their hands when they forget.
- Reporting any concerns about hand hygiene compliance to your supervisor.
Q.What resources are available to help me improve my hand hygiene compliance?
There are a number of resources available to help you improve your hand hygiene compliance, including:
- Hand hygiene training and education programs
- Hand hygiene posters and reminders
- Electronic hand hygiene monitoring systems
Q.How to Wash Your Hands Properly
To wash your hands properly, follow these steps:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (any temperature).
- Apply soap to your hands.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Pay special attention to the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Rinse your hands thoroughly with clean, running water.
- Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.
Q.When to Use Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used when soap and water are not readily available. To use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, apply a generous amount to the palm of your hand and rub it over all surfaces of your hands, including your fingers and under your nails. Continue rubbing until your hands are dry.
Conclusion
Hand hygiene is the single most important intervention to prevent the spread of infection. By following the 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene and using proper hand hygiene techniques, nurses can help to protect themselves, their patients, and other healthcare workers from infection.
