Handwashing Procedure
Learning Outcome #2
- The medical laboratory technologist conducts their professional practice according to established protocols, HHS Department MLT Diploma Safety Manual, CSMLS Safety Guidelines, and existing legislation.
Supplies
- Antiseptic soap
- Clean sink
- Paper towels
Instructions
Read the list of required equipment and supplies and the procedure steps. Follow the procedure in the exact order.
-
- Remove all jewelry from hands and wrists and deposit in a safe place.
- Turn on faucet and adjust water to desired warm water temperature.
- Holding hands down under the running water, wet hands with water.
- Apply antiseptic liquid soap to the hands and wrists. The soap should be applied to the skin with a circular motion of the hands.
- Circular motions are used with suds as it is applied to palms of the hands, backs of the hands, and wrists.
Fingers should be washed by interfacing fingers and rubbing them back and forth with friction. (Singing “happy birthday” twice). - Lower hands and forearms under running water and rinse until no more soap is on the skin.
- Gently dry hands and forearms with a paper towel.
- Use a clean paper towel to turn off the water faucet. The water faucet is considered to be contaminated.
- Paper towel goes into the regular garbage.
- Inspect hands for any skin abrasions or cuts. If any abrasions or cuts cover with a band aid.
Learning Outcome #2
- The medical laboratory technologist conducts their professional practice according to established protocols, HHS Department MLT Diploma Safety Manual, CSMLS Safety Guidelines, and existing legislation.
Instructions
Follow the procedure in the exact order. Have the instructor check off each step.
| Procedural Step | Instructor |
|---|---|
| Remove all jewelry from hands and wrists and deposit in a safe place. | |
| Turn on faucet and adjust water to desired warm water temperature. | |
| Holding hands down under the running water, wet hands with water. | |
| Apply antiseptic liquid soap to the hands and wrists. The soap should be applied to the skin with a circular motion of the hands. | |
| Circular motions are used with suds as it is applied to palms of the hands, backs of the hands, and wrists. | |
| Fingers should be washed by interfacing fingers and rubbing them back and forth with friction. (Singing “happy birthday” twice). | |
| Lower hands and forearms under running water and rinse until no more soap is on the skin. | |
| Gently dry hands and forearms with a paper towel. | |
| Use a clean paper towel to turn off the water faucet. The water faucet is considered to be contaminated. | |
| Paper towel goes into the regular garbage. | |
| Inspect hands for any skin abrasions or cuts. If any abrasions or cuts cover with a band aid. |