Sterile Handwashing Techniques

When washing your hands in a sterile manner, you must remove all forms of life that live on the skin. These microorganisms are germs that can cause diseases or illnesses when transferred to tangible objects or other people. In order to do sterile hand washing, you must scrupulously clean the tissue on your hands with the right cleansers and then rinse and dry your hands properly.

Aseptic Hand Washing

• In doctor and dentist offices, as well as laboratories, workers must learn to practice aseptic hand washing techniques that keep their hands sterile. This type of hand washing must be done before working with a patient or sample. The aseptic hand washing process begins with the removal of jewelry adorning the hands. Then, both hands are dipped in cool or tepid water to dampen them. After this step, an application of germ killing surgical hand scrub is rubbed all over one of the hands. This hand is scrubbed thoroughly for 20 seconds before the solution is applied to the other hand. Then, it too is scrubbed carefully. After this, both hands are rinsed and the steps are repeated two more times. A sterile towel is used to dry the hands and then to shut off the running tap. Then, gloves are added for extra protection.

Sterile Surgical Hand Washing

• The surgical environment requires the very highest level of cleanliness. Sterile hand washing techniques are practiced as a matter of course before all surgical procedures. The routine begins with a hand and arm rub, using surgical antiseptic scrub. Then, the hands are dried with sterile towels. In most cases, the entire room where sterile hand washing is practiced will also be sterile and filled with sterile instruments and supplies. Gloves will be worn after thorough hand washing -- another person will pull these onto the hands. Removing dirt and invisible microorganisms from the fingernails, hands and lower arms is the goal in surgical, sterile hand washing.

Antiseptic, Alcohol-Based Lotions for After Hand Washing

• After practicing aseptic hand washing as listed above, a person may apply an antiseptic, alcohol-based lotion or clear gel. These formulas may be spread over the hands in a washing movement and they will not need to be rinsed. The products offer germ-killing power and do not usually leave a greasy residue. However, the alcohol-based lotions and gels may contribute to dryer skin on the hands and this can become the source of significant discomfort. For everyday washing, these lotions can provide an extra barrier of protection however, without the steps practiced above, they will not render the hands completely sterile.

Using a Hand Brush for Sterile Hand Washing

• A hand brush designed for use when practicing sterile hand washing will allow you to get at dirt that is under your nails and in other, hard to reach areas. This brush can be used with surgical hand scrubs to expedite the sterile hand washing process. Soft and pliable, a hand brush may also feature a cushy sponge.