Every day people touch things that are covered with germs and bacteria. A 2005 study performed by the American Society for Microbiology showed that only around 83 percent of people were seen washing their hands after using a public bathroom. Learning how to properly wash the hands can prevent all types of illnesses--from colds to more serious conditions such as meningitis and hepatitis A.
Wash Hands Before Eating
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urge hand washing before handling food or eating. Hands should also be thoroughly cleansed before contact lenses are handled to prevent injury to the eye. Wash hands before aiding someone who is sick. Dirty hands can carry bacteria that can make the person more ill. In addition, hands should be cleaned before tending to any cuts or wounds.
Wash After Handling Dirty Items
According to the Mayo Clinic website, hands should be washed after encountering anything that may harbor bacteria or germs. This includes garbage and items that could have become contaminated by germs, such as tissue or dirty shoes. Hands should be cleansed after using the restroom, changing a dirty diaper or cleaning a litter box. After touching raw meat, wash hands thoroughly. When sick, clean hands after sneezing, coughing or blowing the nose. In addition, wash up after helping someone who is sick or injured.
Wash Correctly
The Teens Health website explains that hands should be washed in warm water. Any brand of soap can be used, but the Mayo Clinic warns that antibacterial soaps can actually cause bacteria to become resistant to soaps. This can make germs more difficult to kill in the long run. Hands should be rubbed together quickly, making sure to lather the top and bottom of the hands. Pay attention to the wrists, fingers and nails as well. Scrub for around 15 seconds. Children can be taught to sing "Happy Birthday," which lasts about 15 seconds. Rinse all soap off of the hands and dry with a towel.
When in Public
Sometimes germs can reside on faucets and door handles of public bathrooms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using a paper towel to turn off water after washing hands. In addition, a paper towel can be used to open the door. When no soap is available in public, hands should still be cleansed. In these cases, hand sanitizers can be used as a substitute. Alcohol-based sanitizers are designed to clean hands and prevent the spread of germs. To use, apply product to the hands and rub into the skin until dry.
