A.2.3 Post-test: Hand Washing

How does a surgical scrub hand washing differ from basic hand washing?

• The process ends above the elbow in a surgical hand wash versus the wrist in a basic hand wash.
• The nails are cleaned in a surgical hand wash.
• The faucet is turned off with the elbow in a surgical hand wash and a paper towel in a basic hand wash.
• A hand drier is used in a surgical hand washing procedure.

What is the purpose of rinsing the hands from fingertips to elbow in a surgical hand washing procedure?

• Easier to rinse that way
• Cause any microorganisms to flow down the arm and into the sink
• Elbows are dirtier than the fingertips
• Give the fingertips an extra rinse

When performing a basic hand wash, the two palms are rubbed together. What tool is used in a surgical hand wash to perform a similar function?

• Soap
• A nail pick
• A brush
• A nail file

What area is most likely to harbor greater numbers of microorganisms?

• The back of the hand
• The palm
• The wrist
• The fingertips/nails

For how long should the fingertips be scrubbed in a surgical hand washing procedure?

• 2 minutes
• 60 seconds
• 3 minutes
• 30 seconds