Infection Prevention Manual

EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN application to the hands for reducing the number of viable microorganisms on the hands. Antimicrobial Soap: Soap containing an antiseptic agent. Antiseptic Agent: Antimicrobial substances that are applied to the skin to reduce the number of microbial flora. Examples include alcohols, chlorhexidine, PCMX, quaternary ammonium compounds and triclosan. Plain Soap: Detergents that do not contain antimicrobial agents. Waterless Antiseptic Agent: An antiseptic agent that does not require water. After applying such an agent, the hands are rubbed together until the agent has dried. PROCEDURE: Using antimicrobial soap and water or non-antimicrobial soap and water: Keep clothing away from sink and splashes. Wear minimal jewelry. Keep nails short (1/4 inch in length). No artificial nails or extenders in high-risk areas, i.e., OR, ICU. Turn on water and adjust temperature for your comfort. Wet hands and apply manufacturer’s recommended amount of soap to hands. Lather well (soap reduces surface tension enabling the removal of bacteria). Clean fingernail area (bacteria may be harbored beneath fingernails). Wash hands thoroughly, using rigorous scrubbing action for at least 20 seconds. Work lather around fingernails, top of hands, etc. (to facilitate eradication of all bacteria). Rinse hands and wrists under running water. Repeat hand-hygiene technique, if necessary (to prevent recontamination of hands). Dry hands with clean paper towel. (Multiple use towels, i.e., rolling towels, are not recommended for healthcare facilities.) Turn off faucets with used paper towel and discard. Avoid using hot water for hand-hygiene. Repeated use of hot water may increase the healthcare worker’s risk of dermatitis. Using an alcohol-based hand rub: Apply the manufacturer’s recommended amount of alcohol-based hand rub to palm of one (1) hand. Rub hands together, covering all areas of the hands and fingers, until hands are dry, per manufacturer’s recommendations. NOTES: Always follow Standard Precautions. Gloves are to be worn when contact with blood, bodily fluids, mucous membranes, dressings, non-intact skin, etc., is anticipated. Change gloves and discard after each patient contact. One (1) pair of gloves - one (1) patient. Change gloves when moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site on the same patient.