Final answer:
Proper hand washing involves using soap and water to lather and scrub all parts of the hands and nails, followed by rinsing, drying, and using a clean towel to turn off the faucet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proper hand washing is a critical practice to avoid infections by pathogens. The CDC handwashing recommendations outline five key steps for effectively cleaning your hands:
Begin by wetting your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold).
Apply about 5 mL (1 teaspoon) of liquid soap and lather your hands by rubbing them together; be sure to cover all parts of the hands including backs of hands, between fingers, under nails, thumbs, wrists, and under the fingernails. A nail brush can be used to remove debris from under the nails.
Rinse your hands thoroughly from the wrist to the fingertips.
Dry hands with a clean towel or hot air blower and use the towel to turn off the faucet and open doors if necessary.
Good hand hygiene must be practiced before and after various activities such as handling food, eating, taking care of the sick, treating wounds, using the toilet, and after contact with animals or waste. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative.