>>Tip:
It is important to use soap when washing hands. Water alone does not remove protein, oils, grease, and dirt. Rinse hands under running water to wash away microorganisms and soil.

The steps of routine handwashing

1. Wet hands with running water.
2. Rub hands together with soap and lather well, covering all surfaces.
3. Weave fingers and thumbs together and slide them back and forth.
4. Rinse hands under a stream of clean, running water until all soap is gone.
5. Blot hands dry with a clean towel.

Dry your hands with a clean towel or air-dry them. Shared towels can become contaminated quickly. Carry your own handkerchief or towel, attached to your belt or kept in your pocket, if possible, to prevent the use of dirty towels.

If you wash your hands before a medical procedure, do not touch any unclean surfaces before touching the client, touching clean instruments or other items, or putting on gloves.

©2004 EngenderHealth