What does proper hand hygiene involve for infection control?

Proper hand hygiene is critical for infection control and involves washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. This approach effectively eliminates pathogens that can cause infections, especially in healthcare settings where the risk of cross-contamination is high.

When hands are washed with soap and water, physical scrubbing helps dislodge dirt and microorganisms, while the soap acts to break down oils and enhance the removal of pathogens. In situations where soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which contain a minimum of 60% alcohol, can significantly reduce the number of germs on the skin.

The other options do not encompass the comprehensive approach to hand hygiene. Relying solely on antiseptic wipes lacks the thoroughness of washing or sanitizing hands completely. Wearing gloves is an important part of infection control but does not replace the need for hand hygiene, as gloves can become contaminated and should not be considered a substitute. Lastly, using hand lotion, while beneficial for maintaining skin integrity, does not play a role in removing or killing pathogens.