What is the role of handrub solutions containing alcohol in healthcare settings?

Handrub solutions containing alcohol play a critical role in healthcare settings due to their effectiveness in killing a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. These solutions typically contain 60-90% alcohol concentration, which disrupts the cell membranes of microorganisms, leading to their inactivation.

Using alcohol-based handrubs is particularly beneficial in situations where soap and water may not be immediately available or practical, such as in patient rooms or during emergency care. They can significantly reduce the microbial load on hands, contributing to the prevention of healthcare-associated infections.

While handwashing with soap and water is essential, especially when hands are visibly soiled or after specific procedures, alcohol-based handrubs serve as a convenient alternative in many circumstances. This is what makes them an important part of infection control protocols in healthcare environments.