Alternative hand hygiene methods in surgical and clinical settings

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 Hand scrubbing alternative methods 

Many peoples face allergies due to scrubbing repeatedly. Here are some solutions for those. 

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Hand scrubbing is an important step in maintaining hygiene in healthcare settings, particularly in surgical procedures. However, there are alternative methods to hand scrubbing that can be used when traditional hand scrubbing is not possible or practical.

  1. One alternative method is the use of alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR). ABHRs contain high concentrations of alcohol, which can effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They are also quick and easy to use, requiring only a small amount of product and a few seconds of rubbing to achieve effective disinfection. [Waterless hand rub with an alcohol based chlorhexidine gluconate solution can be a safe, quick, and cost-effective alternative to traditional hand scrub.]
  • [ The Waterless method using natural soap during handwashing followed by alcohol-based 1% CHG sanitizer lotion was as effective as the Two-stage method of 4% CHG followed by alcohol-based 1% CHG sanitizer lotion]
  • 2. Use of Disposable Gloves: Wearing gloves can help prevent the transmission of microorganisms from the hands to patients or other surfaces. However, it is important to note that gloves do not replace the need for proper hand hygiene and should be used in combination with other infection control measures.

  • 3. Antimicrobial Foam or Gel: Similar to alcohol-based rubs, these products can provide effective hand disinfection and are often more convenient than scrubbing.

  • 4. Preoperative Skin Prep: Using antiseptic solutions (like chlorhexidine or iodine-based products) on the skin instead of scrubbing can reduce the microbial load before procedures.

  • 5. Surgical Hand Antisepsis with Scrubless Solutions: Some products are designed to provide surgical hand antisepsis without the need for prolonged scrubbing, allowing for a quicker preparation.

  • 6. Waterless Hand Sanitizers: In certain settings, these can be an option, though they may not replace the need for thorough hand washing when hands are visibly dirty.

    • Always ensure that any alternative method meets the guidelines and recommendations of your institution and infection control protocols.

References:


1. Waterless Hand Rub Versus Traditional Hand Scrub Methods for Preventing the Surgical Site Infection in Orthopedic Surgery Kentaro Iwakiri 1, Akio Kobayashi 1, Masahiko Seki 1, Yoshiyuki Ando 1, Tadao Tsujio 1, Masatoshi Hoshino 2, Hiroaki Nakamura

2. Effects of Hand Hygiene Using 4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate or Natural Soap During Hand Rubbing Followed by Alcohol-Based 1% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Sanitizer Lotion in the Operating Room Sadanori Akita 1, Masaki Fujioka 2, Tomoyuki Akita 3, Junko Tanaka 3, Akihiro Masunaga 4, Takayoshi Kawahara 4

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