Proper handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs and illnesses like colds and the flu. However, many people may not be washing their hands as thoroughly or as often as they should.
Good hand hygiene is especially important if you use catheters. Cleaning your hands before handling your catheter and supplies can help reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.
Whether you’re brushing up during National Handwashing Awareness Week or simply looking to build better habits, here’s how to wash your hands correctly and practice good hand hygiene when using a catheter.
Hand Hygiene Facts for Handwashing Awareness Week
Recent studies reveal a concerning trend: nearly half of Americans are not washing their hands correctly. Only 66% of Americans wash their hands after using the restroom.
This approach to hand hygiene is not just a matter of personal health; it’s really a public health issue. Inadequate handwashing can lead to the spread of illness, bacteria, and germs. This is particularly concerning for groups who are at risk, such as people with autoimmune disorders.
You can do your part in keeping clean and reducing the transmission of germs by learning how to properly wash your hands.
Here are a few more handwashing facts and statistics:
- Because children have weaker immune systems than adults, they can become sick quickly, making hand washing important in daycare and school.
- 1 in 4 adults don’t wash their hands after changing diapers.
- 1 out of 3 E. coli outbreaks is caused by poor or no handwashing among those preparing the food.
- Germs that cause disease live in vegetables, meat, and more, making it vital to wash hands before and after preparing food.
- Only 1 in 3 people wash their hands after coughing or sneezing.
- Fewer than 1 in 5 people wash their hands after handling money.
- Less than half of Americans wash their hands after cleaning up after their pets.
Step-by-Step Tips and Visual Guide for Correct Handwashing
According to a new study by Michigan State University, only 5 percent of people washed their hands for the recommended 20 seconds. Plus, about 33% of people don’t use soap when washing their hands.
Here’s the step-by-step process for proper handwashing.
1. First, wet your hands with warm water (not too hot), and be sure to use soap.
2. Rub your hands together, making sure to scrub all areas.
3. Be sure to get between your fingers and under your fingernails. Don’t forget your thumbs!
4. Lather for a minimum of 20 seconds. Try counting that out a few times to get the hang of how long that should be for you at the sink.
5. Next, rinse with clean water.
6. Grab a clean towel or a paper towel to dry your hands. Avoid using public hand-dryers, which can blast germs everywhere.
7. Lastly, if you’re at a restroom where the faucet doesn’t automatically turn off, use a towel to turn off the faucet.
And then you’re all done!
By washing your hands frequently and correctly, you can ensure you’re erasing as many germs as possible. This may also help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections by contamination from your hands.
The Importance of Hand Hygiene for Catheter Users
For people who use intermittent catheters, maintaining proper hand hygiene is not just a recommendation; it’s essential. Proper handwashing may play a role in helping to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), which are among the most common infections in catheter users.
The good news is that there are no-touch catheter options that help reduce the risk of hand contamination.
At 180 Medical, we carry a wide range of high-quality catheters from all major brands on the market. Our goal is to help you find the catheter that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Reach out to us today to request free no-touch catheter samples.
When Should I Wash My Hands?
So, now you know how important proper hand hygiene is. But how often should you wash your hands and when?
Here are a few times when washing your hands is a good idea:
- Before and after eating or preparing food (especially when handling raw meat or eggs)
- Before handling sterile medical supplies, such as catheters or ostomy bags
- After using the restroom
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
- If you’ve visited someone who is ill or in the hospital
- After handling pets or animals
- After changing a child’s diaper
- When you’re back home from shopping in the grocery store (handling grocery carts and money)
It’s a good habit to wash your hands anytime you’ve been out in public.
Hand Hygiene Matters
Washing your hands correctly is a simple but important way to reduce the spread of germs. If you use catheters, clean hands are also an essential part of your catheterization routine and can help reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.
By practicing good hand hygiene every day, you can help protect both yourself and those around you.
Disclaimer: Content provided on 180medical.com is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Product and sample availability may vary based on your insurance plan, prescription, and other requirements. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition, treatment, or medical supply needs.
