Hand Hygiene and Standard Precautions
Category: Infection Control
Overview
Fundamental infection prevention measures including proper hand hygiene technique and implementation of standard precautions to prevent healthcare-associated infections.
Indications
All patient care activities, before and after patient contact, before aseptic procedures, after contact with body fluids, after removing gloves.
Contraindications
No contraindications - required for all healthcare personnel and patient interactions.
Equipment Needed
Soap and water, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, paper towels, personal protective equipment (gloves, gowns, masks, eye protection).
Procedure Steps
1. Remove jewelry and secure loose clothing
2. Wet hands with warm water
3. Apply soap and create lather
4. Rub hands together for at least 20 seconds
5. Clean under fingernails and between fingers
6. Rinse thoroughly with water
7. Dry with clean paper towel
8. Turn off faucet with paper towel
9. Use alcohol-based sanitizer when soap unavailable
10. Apply PPE as indicated by isolation precautions
11. Remove PPE properly after patient care
12. Perform hand hygiene again after PPE removal
Safety Considerations
Ensure hands are visibly clean before using alcohol-based sanitizer. Use soap and water for Clostridium difficile. Avoid artificial nails and keep natural nails short. Report any skin reactions to products.
Potential Complications
Skin irritation, contact dermatitis, healthcare-associated infections from inadequate technique, false sense of security.
Documentation
Document compliance with hand hygiene protocols, any skin reactions, patient education provided, and adherence to isolation precautions.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Hand Hygiene Guidelines for Healthcare Settings. World Health Organization Hand Hygiene Guidelines.