Hand Hygiene with Hannah Moreland

The previous week saw the celebration of the Global Hand Washing Day. This event is commemorated every year to re emphasize the imperative of hand hygiene if the global goals are to be met and quality health is to be achieved.

Good hand hygiene is the simplest and most effective way of preventing the spread of micro- organisms (germs) that could be of harm.


Many of us unknowingly live with micro-organisms on our skin, but they cause us no harm as our skin works as a protective barrier. However if these micro-organisms find a route to the blood stream (for example, through an open wound) then this is when people can become infected.

The removal of these micro-organisms through thorough hand hygiene is the most important factor in preventing them from being transferred to other people and if done effectively can therefore reduce morbidity and mortality.

To facilitate effective hand hygiene; cuts and wounds should be covered with waterproof dressings, sleeves should be rolled back, jewellery should be removed, finger nails should be kept short to prevent the build up of bacteria underneath and should be free from any nail polish or applications and the use of gloves should be considered before intervention.

The hands are the most exposed part of the body and the most easily susceptible to diseases. Diseases are easily transferred
Important times to ensure hand hygiene is carried out are; after using the toilet, before preparing/eating meals and before any contact with people who may be susceptible (have an open wound). Please see the picture below for steps to take for an effective hand hygiene technique.


Reference:

National Health Service (NHS)(2016) Community Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Health and Social Care. Harrogate: NHS

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