The first step in infection control is hand hygiene

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Occupational Health
• Dermatology

Background:

• Dental health care workers (DHCWs) must prevent health care-associated infections.
• Hand hygiene, product selection, and glove use are key infection control measures.
• Occupational irritants and allergies can impede proper hand hygiene.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the importance of hand hygiene and skin integrity for DHCWs.
• To highlight potential obstacles to hand hygiene, such as irritants and allergies.
• To guide DHCWs in selecting appropriate products for maintaining healthy skin.

Main Methods:

• Review of CDC Hand Hygiene Guidelines.
• Discussion of occupational irritants and allergies related to hand hygiene practices.
• Recommendations for product selection and skin care.

Main Results:

• Healthy, unbroken skin is the primary defense against pathogen transmission.
• Frequent hand washing and product exposure can lead to skin irritation and allergies.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with emollients and medical-grade lotions can help maintain skin health.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate hand hygiene product selection and use are essential for dental office infection control.
• Protecting hand skin health is vital for DHCWs' ability to perform clinical tasks.
• Proactive skin care is a critical component of an effective infection control program.