Hand Washing and Glove Wearing

While we are faced with trying to manage and limit the spread of COVID-19, we have all been told to wash our hands thoroughly.  However, hand washing, like wearing a mask, is only effective if done effectively.

Step 1: Wet your hands with warm water.

Step 2: Apply soap and rub your hands together to create a lather.  Be sure to lather the palms of your hands, backs of your hands, under your nails, and between your fingers.

Step 3: Scrub or rub your hands in the places where you've lathered for at least 20 seconds.  Singing happy birthday to yourself will help you get the perfect time/

Step 4: Rinse your hands with warm running water.

Step 5: dry your hands with a clean towel.

Click here for more information from the CDC regarding hand washing.

Many people are using gloves, however, gloves also spread illnesses when not used correctly.  If you touch something that is contaminated with a glove on, and then touch other objects (your phone, steering wheel, keyboard, face) you have put whatever was on the glove on the other object.  When using gloves, be sure to change them after use, only touch what could be considered a dirty object once, and then remove them.  Be sure to wash your hands with warm soapy water or alcohol based hand sanitizer after removing the gloves.

Stay safe and stay healthy!

Author
Hilary P Booth, MS, RN, WHNP-BC Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

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