Hand-Washing: Care Instructions

Overview

It is important for caregivers to wash their hands properly. This is the single best way to prevent the spread of infections. Hand-washing can help keep you from getting sick. It is easy, doesn't cost much, and it works.

Make sure that you and your caregivers follow safe hand-washing routines. Caregivers may include health care workers or family members at home or in a care facility. You can talk to them about this information on hand-washing.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Caregivers should wash their hands with soap and water:
  • When their hands are dirty, especially after being exposed to body fluids. This includes blood.
  • When their hands may have been exposed to germs that could spread infection.
  • After they touch broken skin, sores, or wound bandages.
  • After they use the bathroom.
• At other times, caregivers can use an alcohol-based gel sanitizer or soap and water to clean hands. This should be done:
  • Before and after any contact with you.
  • After they take off gloves.
  • Before they handle a device that touches your body (even if gloves are used).
  • After they touch any objects near you, such as medical equipment, lights, or doorknobs.
  • Before they handle medicine or prepare food.

Proper hand-washing for caregivers

• When using an alcohol-based gel sanitizer, fill your palm with the gel. Then spread it all over your hands. Rub your hands together until they are dry.
• When washing hands with soap and water:
  • Wet your hands with running water, and apply soap.
  • Rub your hands together to make a lather. Scrub well for at least 20 seconds.
  • Pay special attention to your wrists, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.
  • Rinse your hands well under running water.
  • Use a clean towel to dry your hands, or air-dry your hands. You may want to use a clean towel as a barrier between the faucet and your clean hands when you turn off the water.
• If you use bar soap, use small bars. Set the soap on a rack that lets water drain.