Support and Coping with Cancer   /   Caregivers

Handwashing

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Penn Home Infusion Team
University of Pennsylvania Health System
Last Modified: November 1, 2001

Proper handwashing is necessary before beginning any infusion procedure. Your hands normally have bacteria or germs on them. Your hands also pick up bacteria from many places. Because bacteria may cause an infection, it is important to wash your hands properly before beginning your infusion.

You will need the following supplies:

• Warm water
• Antibacterial soap
• Clean paper towel or clean cloth towel

1. Wet your hands and wrists.
2. Lather your hands well with antibacterial soap.
3. Clean under fingernails with soapy hands.
4. Rub your hands together using friction. Make sure you thoroughly wash between all fingers and the back of both hands for at least one minute.
5. Rinse your hands so that water flows from the tips of the fingers to the wrists.
6. Dry your hands using a clean towel (paper or cloth).
7. Use the towel to turn off the water so your clean hands do not touch the faucet.
8. After washing hands, DO NOT touch anything but your infusion supplies.
9. If called away, wash your hands before you begin again.