Handwashing Awareness Week

National Handwashing Awareness Week December 4th – December 10th Handwashing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of contagious diseases when done correctly. Some viruses may be hardy and relatively resistant to disinfection with alcohol rubs, but handwashing with soap increases contact time, facilitates friction, and dissolves grease and dirt, which contain high concentrations of microbes. The Facts 80% of all infectious diseases are transmitted by touch. Where are the germs? When it comes to hands, fingernails and the surrounding areas harbor the most microorganisms. Back Front Frequently missed areas when washing. How long is long enough? The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 15 seconds, though studies show that the reduction of skin bacteria is nearly 10 times greater by washing with soap for 15 30 30 seconds. 95% of the population says they wash their hands after using a public toilet, but when 8,000 people were monitored across 5 large US cities, it was found that the actual number was closer to 67%. Chicago topped the list at 83%, and New York was the worst with less than half. 83 49 Chicago New York 73% Do as I say, not as I do. In a survey, pediatric ICU physicians claimed their rate of handwashing between patients was 73%, but when followed and observed, it was found to be less than 10%. Tired of waiting. A study showed that rates of proper handwashing fell nearly 45% when spaces were overcrowded and understaffed. 45% 5 simple steps to clean hands Wet your hands with warm running water. Add soap, then rub your hands together, making a soapy lather. Wash the front and back of your hands, as well as between your fingers and under your nails. Rinse your hands well under warm running water. Dry hands thoroughly with a clean towel. 5 Turn off the water with a clean paper towel and dispose in a proper receptacle. What type of soap should be used? Any type of soap may be used. However, bar soap should be kept in a self-draining holder that is cleaned thoroughly before new bars are put out. To prevent chapping, use a mild soap with warm water, pat rather than rub hands dry, and apply lotion liberally and frequently. Common handwashing mistakes Do not: ..use a single damp cloth to wash a group of children's hands. ...use a standing basin of water to rinse hands. ...use a common hand towel. Always use disposable towels in daycare or food preparation settings. ..use sponges or non-disposable cleaning cloths unless you launder them on a regular basis, adding chlorine bleach to the wash water. Remember that germs thrive on moist surfaces! Happy & Healthy Washing! Sources Brought to you by Certification Map http://transcripts.crn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0311/16/sm.06.html http://www.healthstate.mnus/handhygiene/stats/statistics.html http://www.nytimes.com/2005/09/27/health/27wash.html http://certificationmap.com @teachercert http://www.podlatrytoday.com/bogged/importance-being-earnest-your-hand-hyglene-0 http://opinionator blogsnytimes.com/2011/04/25/better-hand-washing-through-technology http://chica.org/links_handyhygienephp http://www.manchesterpctnhs.uk/document uploads/infection_Guidelines/handhyiene pdf