Handwashing

Proper handwashing 

Patients with weakened immune systems have a greater risk of getting infections. Sometimes these infections can be life threatening. The easiest and most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands.

Use soap and water if: 

• Your hands look dirty 
• You have touched blood or other body fluids 
• You are about to handle or prepare food 

At other times, you may use an alcohol-based gel. Both methods kill germs. 

How to wash with soap and water 

1. Get your hands wet. 
2. Squeeze a quarter-size amount of soap onto your hand. 
3. Work up a good lather. 
4. Rub your hands together for 15–20 seconds. Apply firm pressure as you rub. 
5. Wash the entire surface of your hands and wrists. Include the backs of hands, between fingers, fingertips, and nails. 
6. Rinse your hands with your palms down. 
7. Dry your hands with paper towels. If you are at home, a clean towel is fine. 
8. Use a paper towel to turn off the faucet and to open the exit door. 

How to wash with alcohol-based gel 

1. Squeeze a nickel-size amount of gel onto your hand. 
2. Rub your hands together. Apply firm pressure as you rub. 
3. Rub the entire surface of your hands, including the backs of your hands, between fingers, fingertips, and nails. 
4. Continue rubbing until your hands are dry. Do not dry your hands with a paper towel. 

When to wash your hands 

• After using the restroom 
• After changing a diaper or helping a child use the toilet 
• After direct contact with a patient, including your own child 
• Before entering and after leaving a patient's room 
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• After going outside 
• After touching pets 
• Before and after eating 
• Before and after feeding your child 

For more information 

To learn more about handwashing and why it is important, ask your child’s nurse.