What is the correct hand hygiene protocol before starting a service?

• A. Rinse with water only.
• B. Apply moisturizer and continue.
• C. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; if hands are not visibly dirty, a sanitizer can be used as an adjunct.
• D. Wear gloves without washing hands.

Answer: (C)

The essential practice is thorough hand hygiene before a service to prevent infection and cross-contamination. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, with adequate friction on all surfaces, then rinsing and drying, is the most reliable method. If hands aren’t visibly dirty, an alcohol-based sanitizer can be used as an adjunct, but it should not replace washing when hands are dirty or contaminated. Rinsing with water alone doesn’t remove oils and microbes effectively, and wearing gloves without washing doesn’t address contamination that may be on the hands. This combination ensures hands are clean before donning gloves and beginning the service.