Hand washing is one of the easiest way to avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of germs. As simple as it seems, many overlook this.
Why wash your hands?
Disease-causing microorganisms like Salmonella, E. Coli, and norovirus can easily spread from one person to another. These germs can get into our hands after using the toilet, changing a diaper, or handling raw meat.
Some of these microorganisms can also get into our hands after touching contaminated objects. Once they get into our hands, they can be easily spread from one person to the next through handshake and touching other objects.
The physicians of Premier Surgical Associates remind you that proper hand washing can help prevent the spread of germs as:
- We frequently touch our eyes, nose, and mouth without realizing it. Harmful microbes can easily get into our system through these areas. Hand washing can help mitigate that.
- We can spread germs through the food and drinks that we prepare.
- We can easily transfer disease-causing bacteria and viruses into other objects and eventually, to another person’s hands.
When should you wash your hands?
As a rule of thumb, you should wash your hands before preparing food, eating, or caring for someone who is sick and after using the toilet, changing a baby’s diaper, feeding an animal, cleaning up an animal’s waste, and even after touching or taking out the garbage.
Steps for proper hand washing
Step 1. Wash your hands under clean, running water
Step 2. Apply soap and lather by rubbing your hands together. Don’t forget to lather the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under the nails.
Step 3. Scrub your hands for approximately 20 seconds.
Step 4. Rinse your hands under clean, running water.
Step 5. Air dry or use a clean towel to dry your hands.
At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, we take pride in the service and care we provide our patients. Don’t underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink could save you trips to the doctor’s office.