Hand Washing Procedure

Handwashing is the single most important procedure for preventing infections. Although routine handwashing can remove the transient skin flora that usually contains potential pathogens, no handwashing procedure sterilizes the skin.

Handwashing routines are divided into two groups, EXTENSIVE and SECONDARY.

EXTENSIVE HANDWASHING- this procedure should be done four (4) times daily: at the start of the day, before and after eating and before leaving the office.

Hands should be thoroughly washed using VIROBEX-P containing aloe vera and lanolin.

• Use cool water. (Cool water does not dilate the pores of the skin. This prevents the powder of the gloves from penetrating the pores and is less traumatic to the skin.)
• Use mild non-irritating antimicrobial soap, MICROBEX VIROBEX-P.
• Remove all jewelry – (fingernails should be short and smooth).
• Rinse the forearms and hands with cool water for a preliminary hand and lower arm wash.
• For the initial washing use a soft brush or sponge in three consecutive latherings for a minimum of 20-30 seconds each. (Wash the palms and backs of the hands, then the finger webs and then the finger tips and thumbs especially around the nail beds.)
• Follow the latherings by one minute rinse in cool water.
• Paper towels are used to turn off the water and a separate paper towel to dry the hands.
• Hands must be dried thoroughly to prevent microbial growth under the gloves.

SECONDARY HANDWASHING- is done between each patient and after changing damaged or worm out gloves.

• This procedure is of short duration. Should be a 10-15 seconds wash time and a 30 seconds rinse time.
• Complete lathering and rinsing techniques are all important.
• Hands should be completely dry before donning gloves.