Hand Hygiene

Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections

Hands are warm, moist, parts of the body that come in frequent contact with germs that can cause contagious illnesses. Young children have not yet learned healthy personal habits; they touch a lot of objects, they suck their thumbs, put things in their mouths, and rub their eyes. Many children also like to handle animals, which often carry a variety of germs. Germs are easily spread when hands touch people, animals, and objects. Learn more by visiting the CDC website on hand washing.

Hand Washing Steps

Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer.

EVERYONE SHOULD WASH THEIR HANDS:

• After toileting

• After playing outdoors

• After handling or feeding animals

• After coughing, sneezing, or wiping noses

• Before eating or drinking

• When visibly soiled

IN ADDITION, ADULTS NEED TO WASH THEIR HANDS:

• Before and after preparing or serving food

• After caring for a sick child

• Before and after diapering a child (child’s hands should also be washed)

• After handling or cleaning up any bodily secretions (diarrhea, vomit, mucus, blood)
• After wiping a child’s nose, mouth, bottom, or sore or cracked skin

• Before giving medication

• After any cleaning activity

Below is a printable version of the hand hygiene guidance

hand washing.pdf

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