Handwashing 101
Updated: Apr 22, 2020
Handwashing 101:
This isn’t your kindergarten handwashing lesson. In fact, it’s much more detailed than that. We learn hygiene practices when we are young and then this becomes a habit for the rest of our lives. But are our habits serving us well or are we missing some things?
Believe it or not nursing students may spend up to two class periods learning handwashing. This is often followed by a skills test where the student must demonstrate proper technique. Meticulous handwashing is the key to prevent yourself from getting sick and to prevent the spread of infection to others. When we wash our hands we get rid of infectious organisms which includes bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
So lets get started.
1) Approach the sink. Do not let your body touch the counter, especially when in public because this surface may have infections organisms on it that can transfer to your clothes.
2) Turn on the water, it should be warm in temperature. Water that is too hot may be uncomfortable and dry out your hands.
3) Get your hands wet with water.