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The infection A2Z web series:
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Click here to go back to Skin decontamination
- You should determine the frequency with which you wash your hands according to your clinical activity and the associated risks of transferring microbes to yourself and your patient.
- Use a risk assessment to determine which hand decontamination method and agent is appropriate.
- Wearing gloves is not a substitute for hand decontamination.
- Hand washing with liquid soap and water is sufficient for most routine clinical activities.
- Perform a surgical hand wash before undertaking any surgical or other invasive procedure.
- Make sure you decontaminate all surfaces of your hands, including your palms, the backs of your hands, fingertips, between your fingers, wrists and thumbs.
- Always dry your hands thoroughly.
- You can use alcohol hand rubs and gels for routine hand cleansing and surgical hand cleansing, provided your hands are not visibly dirty.
- Where hand washing facilities are inadequate, alcohol-based preparations are a practical alternative to soap and water on visibly clean hands.
- Always refer to your local hand decontamination policy.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the use of hand decontamination products.
- For further information, seek advice from your Infection Control Team.
This content is not intended nor does it replace individual professional advice. Please contact a healthcare professional or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 46 47) NHS Direct Wales (0845 46 47) or NHS 24 in Scotland (08454 24 24 24).
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last reviewed 01 January 2005
last updated 17 January 2005
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