Final answer:
Proper hand washing requires running water and "soap". It involves wetting hands, lathering with soap, and scrubbing all areas for at least 20 seconds, followed by thorough rinsing and drying. This practice is critical for pathogen prevention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proper hand washing depends on two factors: running water and soap. When washing hands, you should first wet your hands with clean, running water. After turning off the tap, apply soap to create a lather. It's important to rub your hands together with the soap vigorously, making sure to cover all areas, including the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
The goal of hand washing is to ensure the removal of pathogens to prevent infection. Therefore, after lathering, hands should be rinsed thoroughly from the wrist to the fingertips. Lastly, drying your hands is a crucial step; using a clean towel or a hot air blower, you should dry your hands completely. If available, use a towel to turn off the tap and open the bathroom door to minimize the risk of recontamination.
Remember, effective hand washing is also about the duration and technique. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, ensuring that commonly missed areas like the thumbs, wrists, and spaces between fingers are washed thoroughly. Ideally, a nail brush should also be used to remove debris under the fingernails.
By following these hand washing steps, you help prevent the spread of pathogens. This practice is essential not just at home but also in public health and clinical settings to maintain a high level of hygiene.