hand hygiene should be completed before the following

Hand hygiene is a critical aspect of infection prevention and control, and it's especially important to perform it before certain activities to minimize the risk of transmitting germs. Let's delve into the why, when, and how of hand hygiene, ensuring you're well-equipped to maintain optimal hand cleanliness.

Why is Hand Hygiene Crucial?

Our hands are a primary mode of transmitting infections. They can pick up and spread germs easily, leading to the spread of illnesses like the common cold, flu, or more serious conditions like healthcare-associated infections. Therefore, hand hygiene should be completed before engaging in activities that could lead to contamination or transmission of germs.

When Should Hand Hygiene be Completed?

Before Eating

Always wash your hands thoroughly before preparing or eating food. This helps prevent foodborne illnesses and ensures that your meals are safe and enjoyable.

After Using the Toilet

After using the toilet, it's essential to wash your hands to remove any germs that may have been picked up. This is particularly important after changing diapers or assisting someone else in the toilet.

Before and After Treating a Cut or Wound

Wash your hands before treating a cut or wound to prevent infection, and again afterwards to remove any germs that may have been present on your hands.

Before and After Caring for Someone who is Sick

If you're caring for someone who is sick, it's crucial to wash your hands before and after providing care to prevent the spread of illness. This is especially important when handling bodily fluids or contaminated items.

After Handling Animals or Animal Waste

Animals can carry germs that can make you sick. Always wash your hands after handling animals, their food, or their waste to prevent illness.

How to Perform Hand Hygiene

Proper hand hygiene involves more than just a quick rinse under the tap. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your hands effectively:

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Make sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice.
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Apply the gel to the palm of one hand, rub your hands together, and rub over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until they're dry. However, hand sanitizers aren't as effective when your hands are visibly dirty or greasy, so soap and water should be used in these cases.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While regular hand hygiene can help prevent most infections, it's important to know when to seek medical advice. If you or someone else develops symptoms like fever, severe headache, or a rash after a possible exposure to germs, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing the spread of infections. By understanding when and how to perform hand hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting germs and stay healthy. So, let's make hand hygiene a habit, not just a chore!