Volunteers/Volunteer Orientation/Hand Washing
Hand Washing
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Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.
(Hand-washing with soap and water)
- Remove jewelry and rings
- Turn on water at a comfortable temperature
- Wet hands and apply enough soap to produce a lather
- Rub hands, front and back, in between fingers and around and under nails
- Continue washing for a minimum of 15 seconds
- Rinse hands front and back to remove all soap
- Turn off the faucet using a paper towel
- Use a fresh paper towel to dry your hands

(Hand-washing with medicated foaming alcohol)
- Remove jewelry and rings
- Bend nozzle of canister to release foam into palm of hand
- Rub foam over front and back of hands, between fingers and around nail area
- Continue rubbing until foam has evaporated from skin
When to Wash Your Hands
- Before and after your volunteer shift
- Before and after physical contact with a patient
- After touching any surface in a patient’s room
- After using the toilet, blowing your nose, covering a sneeze or cough or combing your hair
- Before drinking, eating or handling food