Abstract
Hand hygiene refers to the procedure for cleaning and decontaminating the hands using alcohol-based handrub or plain soap and water. It is an essential clinical action that fits into everyday practice and is considered the most effective measure in preventing healthcare-associated infections and, indeed, in saving lives. Hand hygiene is the first priority for healthcare workers as a means to reduce the transmission of micro-organisms. Cross-transmission of micro-organisms that can be pathogenic involves five sequential actions, but there are many opportunities to break this chain. If the actions are not taken, the hands become the main route of microbial transmission. This chapter covers issues associated with healthcare workers’ hand hygiene, compliance, factors that affect compliance and recommendations for effective hand hygiene.
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