Hand Hygiene Recommendations

 
 

Hand Hygiene Recommendations

One of the top ways to protect yourself and others from infection is to practice good hygiene. According to the CDC, practicing hand hygiene, which includes the use of alcohol-based hand rub or handwashing, is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens and infections.

Hand Washing

Proper hand washing consists of washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds covering all surfaces of your hands. Hand washing should be performed:

  • after you have been in a public place

  • after using the restroom

  • before eating

  • after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose

  • anytime hands are visibly soiled

  • after touching frequently touched surfaces such as door handles and counters

How to wash your hands properly

  1. Wet your hands

  2. Use liquid soap

  3. Lather and scrub for at least 20 seconds, including:

    1. Between your fingers
    2. Under your nails
    3. The tops of your hands

  4. Rinse for at least 10 seconds

  5. Dry your hands

  6. Turn off the tap using a paper towel

Using Hand Sanitizer

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

  • Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
  • Hand sanitizer is going to be readily available all over campus.
  • We recommend having your own personal hand sanitizer with you at all times. void touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Gloves and other hygiene practices

Please remember, if you choose to wear gloves, contaminated gloves can spread germs just like contaminated hands. Other important hygiene practices that need to be observed to protect you and those around you are:

  • Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.

  • Throw used tissues in the trash.

  • If you have coughed or sneezed inside your mask then you will need to change your mask because it has most likely become moist at this time and is less effective.

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, door knobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.