Effective handwashing requires the use of:
A. Soap or detergent to promote emulsification.
B. Hot water to destroy bacteria.
C. A disinfectant to increase surface tension.
D. All of the above.
Correct Answer: A. Soap or detergent to promote emulsification.
Soaps and detergents are used to help remove bacteria because of their ability to lower the surface tension of water and act as emulsifying agents. Handwashing is the act of washing hands with soap, either antimicrobial or non antimicrobial, and water for at least 15 to 20 seconds with a vigorous motion to cause friction making sure to include all surfaces of the hands and fingers.
Option B: Hot water may lead to skin irritation or burns. Warm water would be enough for handwashing. Healthcare professionals caring for high-risk patients that are immunocompromised must take great care in performing proper hand hygiene as this patient population is at high risk for opportunistic infections
Option C: Handwashing with soap and water will remove nearly all transient gram-negative bacilli in 10 seconds while chlorhexidine may be more appropriate than soap and water for the removal of transient gram-positive bacteria. According to the CDC, established guidelines recommend that agents used for surgical hand scrubs should reduce microorganisms on intact skin in a substantial manner, contain a nonirritating antimicrobial preparation, have broad-spectrum activity, and be fast-acting and persistent.
Option D: Hand hygiene practices are paramount in reducing cross-transmission of microorganisms, hospital-acquired infections and the risk of occupational exposure to infectious diseases. According to the CDC, understanding the importance of hand hygiene and its impact on the pathogenic spread of microorganisms is best understood when one understands the anatomy of the skin. The skin serves as a protective barrier against water loss, heat loss, microorganisms, and other environmental hazards.