What are the three types of hand hygiene?

The three types of hand hygiene are classified as social, antiseptic/hygienic, and surgical.

Social hand hygiene refers to the general washing of hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub when hands are visually soiled or when transitioning between tasks in everyday life. This form of hand hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of infections in daily activities and is recommended for the general public.

Antiseptic or hygienic hand hygiene means using antiseptic agents or alcohol-based hand sanitizers to reduce the microorganisms on the skin. This practice is vital in healthcare settings where the risk of infections is higher, as it helps minimize the presence of pathogens on the hands before they come into contact with patients or sterile instruments.

Surgical hand hygiene involves a more thorough and specific process, often including a prolonged washing procedure with antiseptic soap or solutions that ensure hands and forearms are free from as many pathogens as possible before performing surgical procedures. This process is critical in preventing surgical site infections and ensuring patient safety during invasive procedures.

The combination of these three types of hand hygiene practices outlines a comprehensive approach that addresses varying levels of infection control needed across different settings and situations.