Hand Hygiene in Health Care Facilities

Why is hand washing and hand hygiene considered important in health care facilities?

• It is a basic courtesy to clients.

• It is the single most important procedure for preventing health care associated infections.

• It is only necessary if the health care worker is dirty.

• It is a requirement for health care workers to look professional.

When should hands be washed in a health care setting?

• Only at the start and finish of your shift.

• After using the toilet and before eating.

• Before and after any direct client care or contact, and in various other specific situations as listed.

• Once a day to maintain personal hygiene.

What is a social hand wash?

• A hand washing technique using cold water.

• A hand washing technique used after performing surgery.

• A hand washing technique recommended following social-type contact with clients.

• A hand washing technique that uses antiseptic soap.

What type of soap is often used for a social hand wash?

• Antibacterial soap.

• No soap is needed.

• A plain liquid soap.

• Heavy-duty cleaning soap.

What is the basic principle of hand washing to remove transient microorganisms?

• Using hand sanitizer only.

• Drying hands with a clean towel.

• Using soap, water and a vigorous rubbing action.

• Applying lotion after washing.

What is a clinical hand wash?

• A quick rinse of hands with water.

• A hand wash that is done without soap.

• A hand wash used before clinical procedures or in outbreak situations, using an antiseptic soap.

• A hand wash that is only required once per week.

How long should you keep your hands raised after rinsing off the soap during a regular hand wash to ensure excess water drips off?

• At least 15 seconds

• Until they are dry

• There is no need to keep hands raised

• Not specified

What should be used to turn off the taps after a surgical hand wash?

• A sterile absorbent towel

• Your clean hands

• Your elbow, foot or electronic controls

• A paper towel

Why should hand creams supplied by your work place be the only ones used?

• They are less expensive

• They have antiseptic properties

• They smell better

• They are mandatory

Why should nail brushes not be used on a regular basis?

• They are not effective in cleaning

• They can damage the skin and cause infection

• They are too expensive

• They take too long to use