Which of the following measures is appropriate when a nurse is washing his or her hands?

Question

a. Use very hot water.
b. Leave rings and watches in place.
c. Lather for at least 15 to 20 seconds.
d. Keep the fingers and hands up and the elbows down.

Answer 1

C
Perform hand hygiene using plenty of lather and friction for at least 15 to 20 seconds. Interlace fingers and rub palms and back of hands with circular motion at least 5 times each. Keep fingertips down to facilitate removal of microorganisms. Hot water can be damaging to the skin. Regulate the flow of water so that the temperature is warm. Warm water removes less of the protective oils on the hands than hot water. Jewelry and watches can be a place for pathogens to hide. Push wristwatch and long uniform sleeves above wrists. Avoid wearing rings. If worn, remove during washing. This provides complete access to fingers, hands, and wrists. Wearing of rings increases the numbers of microorganisms on the hands. The position of hands and arms will aid in washing pathogens away. Wet hands and wrists thoroughly under running water. Keep hands and forearms lower than elbows during washing. Hands are the most contaminated parts to be washed. Water flows from the least to the most contaminated area, rinsing microorganisms into the sink.