When should hand hygiene be performed in a healthcare setting?

Hand hygiene is a critical component of infection control in healthcare settings due to its effectiveness in reducing the transmission of pathogens. The recommended practices emphasize that hand hygiene should be performed at several key moments to protect both patients and healthcare workers.

Performing hand hygiene before and after patient contact ensures that any potential contaminants on the hands are removed before touching patients, which helps prevent the introduction of pathogens into their systems. Additionally, washing hands after contact with patients is vital to remove any infectious agents that may have been transferred during the interaction.

Furthermore, hand hygiene should occur after contact with bodily fluids, such as blood or saliva, as these fluids can carry infectious agents. It’s equally important to cleanse hands before performing medical procedures, as this helps maintain a sterile environment and reduces the risk of surgical site infections.

This comprehensive approach is critical in a healthcare setting, where the risk of infection transmission is heightened and can lead to complications for vulnerable patients. The guidelines are rooted in evidence-based practices and are designed to protect both patients and healthcare professionals alike.