Health

Hand Hygiene

Good Hand Hygiene is the most effective way to stop infections spreading.

Many infections are caused by spreading germs from person-to-person. Even when your hands look clean they can still be carrying germs. 

You should wash your hands properly and often, especially:

• After blowing one’s nose, coughing or sneezing. Remember to cough into your inner elbow or use a tissue and throw tissue away, then wash hands. Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes.
• Before, during and after preparing food.
• Before eating food.
• After going to the toilet or changing nappies.
• After touching animals, including family pets.
• Before and after visiting or taking care of any sick friends and relatives.
• After handling rubbish, working or playing outside.
• After smoking.
• After cleaning the house.
• After touching garbage.
• After playing sport.
• At any other time when hands are soiled.
• Remember to keep fingernails clean.
• Alcohol-based liquids or gels can be used if you do not have access to soap and water. Hand gels are not as effective when hands are visibly dirty.

Most of us don’t pay attention to how we wash our hands, but it’s important to do it the right way. Remember to dry hands well with paper towel or air dryer. 

Please refer to hand washing poster attached.

Jenny Hill

College Nurse

Reference: HealthyWA.gov.au