What is surgical handwashing?

Surgical handwashing is a specific procedure used by healthcare professionals before performing surgery or other sterile procedures to reduce the risk of infection and contamination of the surgical site. Maintaining a sterile operating field is crucial for preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) and ensuring patient safety.

The surgical handwashing technique typically involves a multi-step process that involves thorough cleansing and scrubbing of the hands and forearms using an antibacterial soap or solution. Here are the general steps involved in surgical handwashing:

1. Pre-wash:

- Remove any jewelry, watches, and accessories that may harbor microorganisms.

- Trim fingernails short and clean under the nails.

- Wet hands under running water, avoiding contact with faucets and sinks that may be contaminated.

2. Apply Antiseptic Soap or Solution:

- Dispense a sufficient amount of approved antibacterial soap or a sterile antiseptic solution onto the palm.

3. Palm-to-Palm Scrubbing:

- Rub the palms of both hands together, ensuring soap or solution reaches between fingers and covers all surfaces.

- Continue for a specific duration, usually 5 to 10 seconds.

4. Back of Hand and Finger Scrubbing:

- Interlace your fingers and scrub the backs of the hands and between fingers of each hand.

- Pay attention to the thumbs, cuticles, and the web spaces between fingers.

- Continue scrubbing for the specified time.

5. Palm and Fingernail Scrubbing:

- Position one hand on top of the other, keeping fingers straight and together.

- Use the palm of one hand to scrub fingers and fingernails of the other hand.

- Reverse hands and repeat the process for both hands.

6. Thumb Scrubbing:

- Grasp one thumb with the opposing hand and scrub it thoroughly, moving from the base of the thumb towards the tip.

- Repeat for both thumbs.

7. Circular Motion Scrubbing:

- With cupped hands, perform a circular motion while keeping the hands together and rotating the wrists.

- Continue for the recommended duration.

8. Arm and Elbow Scrubbing:

- Wet forearms and elbows.

- Scrub the forearms and elbows using a downward motion.

- Ensure soap or solution reaches above the elbows.

9. Rinse Hands and Arms:

- Rinse the hands and arms thoroughly under running water, starting from the fingertips and moving upwards.

- Avoid splashing water towards the face or surgical attire.

10. Dry Hands and Arms:

- Use sterile towels or disposable surgical wipes to dry hands and forearms.

- Pat the skin dry, avoiding rubbing or creating lint.

11. Put on Sterile Gloves:

- Once hands and arms are completely dry, carefully put on sterile gloves while maintaining sterility.

- Avoid touching any non-sterile surfaces during the process.

12. Additional Measures:

- Some surgical procedures may require additional steps, such as using a surgical brush and antiseptic solution for further decontamination.

It's essential for healthcare professionals to follow the recommended surgical handwashing protocol diligently before surgical procedures to minimize the risk of infection and maintain the highest standards of patient safety and infection control.