Know the CDC hand hygiene guidelines, Megan DiGiorgio, RN
CDC Hand Hygiene Guidelines
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hand hygiene is the #1 way to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings.*
The CDC recommends soap and water if hands are visibly soiled, which, with the use of exam gloves, shouldn’t be often. It is important for dental professionals to understand the CDC guidelines for hand hygiene as the American Dental Association (ADA) follows these guidelines.
“ ...if hands are not visibly soiled, use an alcohol-based hand rub for routinely decontaminating hands.”
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)