NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareEasy
A medical assistant is educating a patient about proper hand hygiene. Which of the following actions is the most effective method for reducing the transmission of infection?
- AUsing hand sanitizer frequently throughout the day.
- BWiping hands with a damp cloth after patient interaction.
- CWearing gloves for all patient contact.
- DWashing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective method for removing transient microorganisms and reducing the transmission of infection, especially when hands are visibly soiled.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Hand sanitizer is effective for many pathogens but less so for visibly soiled hands or certain organisms like C. difficile.
- B. Wiping hands with a damp cloth is insufficient for proper decontamination and infection control.
- C. Gloves are essential for contact with bodily fluids, but do not replace hand hygiene between patients or after glove removal.
Hand Hygiene Effectiveness
Measures taken to reduce the spread of microorganisms and prevent healthcare-associated infections.
- Soap and water for 20 seconds is most effective.
- Alcohol-based hand rubs are alternatives when hands are not visibly soiled.
- Crucial before and after patient contact, after glove removal, and after bodily fluid exposure.
- Friction is key in mechanical removal of germs.
Memory trick: Clean Hands, Clear Health!