Exploring WHO-Recommended Hand Washing Techniques for Optimal Hygiene
Hand washing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides specific guidance to ensure that hand washing is performed correctly. This article delves into the WHO-prescribed procedures for hand washing, breaking down each step to ensure thorough cleaning.
What is the WHO Prescribed Procedure for Hand Wash?
Hand hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of diseases. The WHO recommends following a set of steps when washing your hands with soap and water to ensure complete cleaning. This method involves 15 carefully executed steps, each focusing on different parts of the hand.
Step-by-Step Guide to WHO Hand Washing Recommendations
Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to the WHO hand washing recommendations:
Wet hands with water: Begin by wetting your hands with clean, running water.
Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces: Use an adequate amount of soap to ensure that all parts of your hands, including the back, palms, and between fingers, are properly covered.
Right palm over left dorsum with interlaced fingers and vice versa: Place one palm on the back of the other, with fingers interlocked. Rub the backs of your hands together in a similar motion.
Palm to palm with fingers interlaced: Interlace your fingers and place your palms together, rubbing your palms against each other.
Backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked: Hold one thumb with the other hand and rub it against the other palm. Repeat this for the other thumb. interlock your fingers and press the back of each finger against the palm of the opposite hand.
Rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice versa: Rotate your right thumb in the palm of your left hand and vice versa.
Rotational rubbing backwards and forwards with clasped fingers of right hand in left palm and vice versa: Rotate your fingers in a back-and-forth motion with the other hand, ensuring that all areas are thoroughly cleaned.
Rinse hands with water: Rinse your hands thoroughly under running water to remove any soap or other contaminants.
Dry hands thoroughly: Dry your hands using a clean, single-use towel. This is particularly important to ensure that you are not re-contaminating your hands after washing.
Turn off the faucet with a towel: Use a clean towel to turn off the faucet to avoid re-contaminating your hands.
Understanding the WHO Hand Washing Duration
The entire procedure should take between 40-60 seconds. This time frame allows for a thorough cleaning of all hand surfaces and reduces the risk of leaving any areas uncleaned.
Additional Tips for Hand Washing
To further enhance hand hygiene, consider the following tips:
Gargle with hot water: Gargling with hot water can help clean the throat, which is a common entry point for infections.
Drink hot water: Drinking hot water can also aid in clearing infections as it helps to warm and clean the throat, making it more difficult for contaminants to reach the windpipe.
Wear protective gear: In some situations, wearing gloves or masks can provide additional protection.
For more information on hand hygiene and to learn about the latest guidelines, you can visit the WHO website or follow the official WHO WhatsApp number: 41798931892.
Video Resource
View this video for a visual demonstration of the WHO recommended hand washing steps. It also explains the use of WHO hand sanitizer at home.
Conclusion
Proper hand washing with soap and water is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing the spread of infections. By following the WHO guidelines, you can ensure that your hands are thoroughly cleaned, providing an effective barrier against germs and viruses. Stay vigilant and practice good hygiene to protect yourself and those around you.