Please enable JavaScript.
Coggle requires JavaScript to display documents.
Does hand soap actually reduce the spread of bacteria? - Coggle Diagram
Does hand soap actually reduce the spread of bacteria?
Handwashing technique
Surgical-
Surgical handwashing involves a complicated process that thoroughly cleanses hands, wrists, and forearms using antiseptic solutions such as chlorhexidine or iodine-based solutions. Health authorities suggested following standardized procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness in removing bacteria and pathogens.
Antiseptic-
This technique involves using antiseptic solutions to cleanse the hands thoroughly. It’s commonly used in healthcare, especially before interfering with procedures or patients at higher risk of infection. Antiseptic handwashing is focused on reducing the number of bacteria on hands to prevent transmission of pathogens in environments where infection control is crucial.
Social
- Social Handwashing refers to daily handwashing practices that people perform at home, workplaces, and public places. It is essential for general hygiene and prevents the spread of germs in everyday situations. Social handwashing typically emphasizes using regular soap and water to remove dirt and germs from the hands, maintaining personal hygiene, and reducing the risk of transmitting infections.
Type of soap
Bar soap -
Bar soap is effective in removing bacteria though concerns states that bacteria exists on its surface. though, expert says that the risk is niminal if the soap is properly rinsed and kept dry.
Dishwashing soap-
Dishwashing soap is a soap that's specifically designed to remove grease and bacteria from dishes. It can be used for handwashing but is not specifically designed as it contains chemicals that are harsh on the skin, causing skin irritation
Liquid soap -
When reducing bacteria, liquid soap is generally considered to be the best option due to its effective formulation and hygienic dispensing method. Liquid soap contians antibacterial agents and is dispensed from a pump which minimizes the risk of cross-contamination makit it highly effective and convenient for public and private use
Foam soap-
Foam soap is a good option for handwashing as it is effective in reducing bacteria and is easy to use; it spreads easily over hands and is preferred in public restrooms because of its efficiency and reduced water usage.
Dyring technique
Paper towel
- Paper towel is a highly effective drying technique for reducing bacteria on hands, as they are single-use and it minimizes cross-contamination. Health experts recommend the usage of paper towels, especially in hygiene environments such as hospitals.
Tea towels -
Tea towels pose hygiene risks if not regularly washed and kept dry due to their reusability, though it is an environmentally sustainable tool. Tea towel due to its repeated use harbors bacteria which in public settings where hygiene is pre-dominant paper towels or well-maintained hand dryers are preferred for their balance of hygiene and environmental considerations.
Hand dryer-
Hand dryer is a drying technique tool, particularly in modern high-speed models with HEPA filers. It is hygienic and environmentally friendly since they abolish paper waster. However, there are concerns that it can potentially spread bacteria and viruses through the air, and their effectiveness depends on the user’s drying time.
Duration of washing hands
20 seconds-
Washing for 20 seconds is recommended by health organisations since it ensures thorough cleaning, covering all parts of the hands, including the back, between the fingers, and under nails, allowing the soap to break down and remove pathogens effectively.
40 seconds -
Washing for 40 seconds provides a marginal increase in effectiveness than 20 seconds. However, the additional benefit is minimal if proper handwashing techniques are used.
60 seconds-
Washing for 60 seconds further ensures thorough cleaning, though it offers lessening returns compared to 20 seconds. While it might be slightly effective, the difference when washing for 20 seconds is insignificant. 60 seconds handwash is impractical for everyday use and unlikely to be followed consistently due to significant time commitment, resulting in lower overall compliance
Amount of Soap
3ml-
Though 3 ml of soap produces a richer lather, it's often unnecessary for effective handwashing as excess soap may not provide additional benefits and could lead to wastage. Using more soap than necessary can result in more difficult rinsing that could possibly leave residue on the hands.
4ml-
Applying 4 ml amount of soap is generally excessive for handwashing. Though it creates a richer lather, it is often unnecessary and could lead to wastage. It doesn't provide additional benefits, and rinsing would be more challenging when applying this much amount, leaving residue on hands.
2ml-
Applying 2 ml amount of soap is effective or handwashing, as this quantity ensures throrough coverage of all surfaces allowing the soap to break down and remove pathogens effectively.
1 ml-
Applying 1 ml amount of soap is considered optimal, as this amount is generally sufficient to create a lather that effectively removes dirt, grease, and pathogens from hands.
Type of water
Distilled water-
Distilled water purified through the distillation process lacks minerals and may not be effective and practical for handwashing, especially in large settings, due to cost and availability considerations.
Tap water-
Tap water is convenient as it is readily available in most households and public settings and is effective for hand hygiene practices. Tap water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium that help remove dirt and grime from the hands when combined with soap. It's highly effective in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.
Water temperature
Cold water-
Cold water, when used in handwashing, is less effective as it doesn't really dissolve oils and dirt and doesn't provide thorough cleaning.
Warm-
warm water effectively dissolves oils and dirt from the skin, leading to a better removal of pathogens and germs. Warm water helps open up the pores in the skin, allowing the soap to penetrate more deeply and clean thoroughly.