Hand washing

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Hand washing

• HLTIN 301A topic 11

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What are the goals of hand washing?

• Remove micro-organisms and dirt
• Inhibit growth and reproduction
  of harmful micro-organisms
• Prevent transmission (ie cross infection)

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What do these words mean?

• Pathogen
• Surgically clean
• Sterile
• Asepsis

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Give some examples of when you, as a nurse, would
hand wash.
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• On commencing and completing work
• Before and after contact with a client
• After contact with blood or body fluids
• After handling soiled materials
• Before handling medical or sterile equipment
• Before and after meal/rest breaks

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Procedure and Rationale

• Remove jewellery
• Micro-organisms lodge in settings
• Firm rubbing, covering all areas
• Friction aids removal
• Rinse thoroughly
• Remove cleansing solution, prevent skin
  irritation
• Turn taps off with elbows (or paper towel)
• Prevent recontamination of hands
• Dry hands completely
• Minimise spread, moisture aids transmission, may
  precipitate drying and cracking of hands

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