What is a critical component of hand hygiene when using alcohol-based hand rubs?

The critical component of hand hygiene when using alcohol-based hand rubs is ensuring that hands are visually clean and using the correct amount of product for effective disinfection. Alcohol-based hand rubs are effective at killing most pathogens, but their efficacy is significantly influenced by the amount of product used and the application technique. To achieve optimal results, it is essential to apply enough of the hand rub to cover all surfaces of the hands thoroughly.

Additionally, hands must be free from visible dirt and organic matter before applying the alcohol-based product. If hands are visibly dirty, handwashing with soap and water is preferred, as alcohol-based rubs may not eliminate all pathogens in the presence of dirt. Therefore, following the correct hand hygiene protocols ensures not just the appearance of cleanliness, but also the effective removal or inactivation of harmful microorganisms.