Final answer:
The target population for COVID-19 and handwashing research could be healthcare workers due to their high exposure risk. Using soap and water is effective because soap dismantles the virus's structure, an essential fact according to CDC handwashing recommendations. Focused questions can help explore hand hygiene practices and barriers among healthcare staff.
Step-by-step explanation:
When conducting research on COVID-19 and handwashing, the target population might include the general public or specific groups at higher risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers, the elderly, or children in educational settings. Choosing healthcare workers as the target population would be particularly relevant, as they are at heightened risk due to their frequent exposure to the virus and can significantly benefit from effective hand hygiene practices.
According to the CDC handwashing recommendations, the most effective method of handwashing involves using soap and warm running water. This is because soap and water work together to remove all types of germs from hands, not just COVID-19, and prevent the spread of infections. The soap molecules essentially break down the virus's lipid envelope, making it inactive and easily washed away with water.
Asking focused questions about the topic can deepen the understanding and effectiveness of the research. For instance, which practices do healthcare workers find most manageable and effective in maintaining hand hygiene, or what barriers exist that prevent proper handwashing.