© APIC 2005		We are committed to the safety of our patients and our staff. From the days of Semmelweiss until the most recent CDC studies, both research and common sense agree that hand washing (or "Hand Hygeine") is an effective way to prevent the spread of infection. Hand Hygiene includes both washing with soap and water as well as the use of an Alcohol-based hand cleaner. Consistancy is the most important feature of hand hygiene. Faithfully washing your hands before and after every contact with 100 patients will not protect the 101st patient if we forget.

Below are some frequently asked questions. .

• What is the RCRMC policy on Hand Hygiene?
• What are the Requirements for Fingernails?
• When should I use an Alcohol-based Rub?
• When should I use Soap and Water?
• How can I prevent dry, cracked hands?
• I want to ask a different question

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What is the RCRMC policy on Hand Hygiene?

RCRMC Policy number IC 2-11 states that Hand hygiene shall be done using warm water and an approved liquid soap for a MINIMUM of 15-30 seconds. Alternatively, you may use an alcohol based hand gel: be sure to rub your hands until they are dry.

This should be done

• At the beginning and end of each shift
• Before and after providing care, including touching anything in the patient's environment including the chart
• Before and after eating or toileting
• Before entering and prior to leaving any special care area
• NICU requires a full 3 MINUTE scrub
• When the hands are visibly soiled
• Before donning and after removing gloves

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What are the Requirements for Fingernails?

Nail care requires

• Keeping the cuticles trimmed and moisturized
• Natural nail tips are not to exceed more than 1/4 inch beyond the fingertip
• Chipped nail polish should be removed before providing care to patients
• Employees providing direct and indirect patient care may not wear artificial fingernails, extenders, silk wraps, tips, or nail jewelry

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When should I use an Alcohol-based Rub?

Hand gels may be used for routine hand hygiene, such as between caring for patients, as long as your hands are not visibly soiled or your gloves did not break.

When using Hand Sanitizing gels

• May be used up to five (5) times before you must wash with soap and water
• Can be used if the hands are not visibly soiled
• If your gloves did not tear or rip when performing your job
To use a gel correctly, squirt the recommended amount into the palm of one hand, then rub the hands vigorously until they dry. Be sure to cover both sides of your hands and all fingers.

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When should I use Soap and Water?

You should use soap and warm water whenever your hands are visibly soiled or when your gloves have torn or broken. You should also use soap and water after every 5th use of an alcohol rub. To use soap and water:

• Avoid hot water. It may cause chapped skin
• Use an approved liquid soap and rub hands vigorously for at least 15-30 seconds
• Be sure to cover the palms, backs of the hands, and all finger surfaces thoroughly.
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How can I prevent dry, cracked hands?

Avoid using hot water when washing to reduce the chance of dermatitis (chapped skin). Moistureize your hands frequently to prevent them from drying and cracking. Cover any cuts or scratches on your hands, wrists, or fingers with an appropriate dressing before providing patient care.

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