The NHS, or National Health Service, emphasizes the importance of hand washing as a crucial step in preventing the spread of infections and illnesses. This simple yet powerful act can significantly reduce the risk of catching or passing on viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19. Let's delve into the art of hand washing according to the NHS guidelines, ensuring your hands are clean and safe.
Why is Hand Washing So Important?
Hand washing is a vital part of personal hygiene and infection control. Our hands pick up germs from everything we touch, including door handles, money, and even our mobile phones. Without proper hand washing, these germs can be transferred to our eyes, nose, or mouth, making us sick. The NHS highlights that regular hand washing can help protect against a wide range of illnesses, from the common cold to more serious conditions like food poisoning and COVID-19.
NHS Hand Washing Guidelines
The NHS recommends washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser when soap and water aren't available. Here are the key steps to follow:
- Wet your hands with water.
- Apply enough soap to cover all parts of your hands.
- Rub your hands palm to palm.
- Interlace your fingers and rub the backs of your hands.
- Clasp your thumb in your other hand and rub in a circular motion.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
How Long Should You Wash Your Hands?
It's important to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the 'Happy Birthday' song twice while washing. This should take around 20 seconds and help you ensure you're washing long enough.
When Should You Wash Your Hands?
According to the NHS, you should wash your hands at key times to help protect against infections. These include:
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- After using the toilet.
- Before eating or preparing food.
- After handling animals or animal waste.
- After touching rubbish.
- Whenever your hands look or feel dirty.
Hand Sanitisers: When to Use Them
Hand sanitisers that contain at least 60% alcohol can be used when soap and water aren't available. However, they aren't as effective when your hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Always follow the instructions on the label and supervise children when they use hand sanitiser.
Teaching Children About Hand Washing
Teaching children about the importance of hand washing is crucial. Make it fun by singing songs or using posters to help them remember the steps. The NHS offers resources to help teach children about hand hygiene in a engaging and informative way.
Hand Washing in Public Places
When you're out and about, it's not always easy to find a sink to wash your hands. The NHS recommends using a hand sanitiser when this is the case. However, always wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you can.
Hand washing is a simple yet powerful way to protect your health and the health of those around you. By following the NHS guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of catching or spreading infections. So, let's all do our part in maintaining good hand hygiene and staying healthy.
