Final answer:
Proper hand washing in a healthcare setting requires at least 20 seconds of washing with warm water and soap, ensuring that all parts of the hands are thoroughly cleansed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct technique for proper hand washing requires that the technologist use warm soap and water with a circular rubbing motion for at least 20 seconds. This is to remove and reduce the microbiota on the skin's surface effectively to minimize the risk of transmitting any microorganisms to patients. A thorough handwashing technique is crucial for healthcare workers especially, who must perform this before and after patient contact, after the removal of gloves, and after contact with bodily fluids or potentially infectious materials. Using liquid soap, it is essential to cover the hands completely, including commonly missed areas like the thumbs, wrists, between the fingers, and under the fingernails. If available, a nail brush can be used for extra cleanliness under the nails. Finally, hands should be rinsed with water flowing from the wrist to the fingertips and dried thoroughly with a clean towel or air blower