What it means
The single most important way to stop the spread of infection in health care. Alcohol-based hand rub is used when hands are not visibly dirty; soap and water are used when hands are visibly soiled and after caring for a client with C. difficilesee dif-uh-SEELClostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).Full entry or other spore-forming germs, which alcohol does not remove. Hands are cleaned before and after touching a client, before clean or sterile tasks and after contact with body fluids.
For the nurse
When washing with soap and water, rub all surfaces for at least 20 seconds. Gloves do not replace hand hygiene: clean hands before putting on gloves and after taking them off.
At a glance
| Spanish | higiene de manos |
|---|---|
| Also written | hand washing, handwashing, hand-washing |
Related terms
pathogen
A germ, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite, that can cause disease.
precaution
A step taken ahead of time to prevent harm, such as the infection-control practices used with every client.
hygiene
Care of the body to keep it clean and healthy, such as bathing, mouth care, hair and nail care.