What are the major criteria for proper hand hygiene in sterile compounding?

Proper hand hygiene in sterile compounding is crucial for minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring patient safety. The most effective method is a combination of thorough hand washing followed by the use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Hand washing with soap and water effectively removes dirt, debris, and a wide range of potential contaminants. This step is essential because it physically cleans the hands and reduces the overall microbial load. However, soap and water alone may not achieve complete disinfection of the skin.

Following hand washing, the application of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer provides an additional layer of protection. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective in killing many pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, and they contribute to the rapid reduction of microorganisms on the skin. The combination of these two methods is recommended because it ensures that both mechanical cleaning and chemical disinfection occur, significantly decreasing the likelihood of contamination during sterile compounding processes.

Using only soap and water does not provide the necessary level of microbial reduction, and relying solely on an alcohol-based hand sanitizer without prior hand washing may not remove all organic material. Wiping hands with a dry cloth is not an appropriate hand hygiene practice, as it does not effectively clean or disinfect the skin.