how many steps are involved in hand hygiene practice as per who world health organization

"Hand Hygiene Steps: WHO's Comprehensive Guide"

By Melissa AllenMarch 15, 2026

The practice of hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection prevention and control, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). It's a simple yet powerful measure that can significantly reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections. But how many steps are involved in this critical process? Let's delve into the WHO's 'Five Moments for Hand Hygiene' and explore the detailed steps involved.

Understanding the 'Five Moments for Hand Hygiene'

The WHO's hand hygiene guidelines, published in 2009, introduced the concept of the 'Five Moments for Hand Hygiene'. This approach emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene at specific times during patient care to maximize its effectiveness. The five moments are:

Before touching a patient
Before performing a clean/aseptic procedure
After exposure to body fluids
After touching a patient
After touching a patient's surroundings

The 7 Steps of Hand Hygiene According to WHO

Now, let's break down the 7 steps involved in hand hygiene practice as per the WHO:

Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle – Simple Daily Personal Care Guide

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Step	Action
1	Wet your hands with water
2	Apply an alcohol-based hand rub (if hands are not visibly soiled)
3	Turn off the tap using a paper towel or your elbow
4	Perform a hand rub using the recommended technique (see below)
5	Rinse your hands with water
6	Dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel
7	Use the towel to turn off the tap and discard it

Hand Rub Technique

The hand rub technique is crucial for effective hand hygiene. It involves rubbing your hands together, palm to palm, and then interlacing your fingers. Next, palm your fingertips in the opposite palm, rub your thumbs, and finally, clasp your hands and rotate your wrists. This should take around 20-30 seconds.

Hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing healthcare-associated infections. By understanding and adhering to the 7 steps outlined by the WHO, healthcare workers can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting infections to patients. Let's all play our part in maintaining a clean and safe healthcare environment.