When it comes to staying healthy, one of the most important things parents can teach their
children is to wash their hands. It is important to wash many times during the day, including:
- Before eating
- After playing outside
- After playing with or cleaning up after pets
- After going to the bathroom
- When hands look dirty
Hand Washing Technique Using Soap
- Wet hands thoroughly and apply liquid or clean bar soap. Lather welll.
- Rub hands together for about 15 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the ABC's)
- Scrub all surfaces including the backs of hands, between fingers and under nails.
- Rinse well.
The combination of rubbing your hands with soap and rinsing with water loosens the bacteria and
viruses from your hands. After washing:
- Dry with a clean or disposable towel.
- Use the towel to turn off the faucet.
Hand Washing Technique Using Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers
- If you can see dirt on your hands, wash with soap and water.
- Put a dime-sized amount of hand sanitizer on your palm.
- Rub hands together, covering all surfaces, until they are dry.
Safety Reminders with Hand Sanitizer Gels
- Young children may need an adult's help to use sanitizer.
- If accidentally gotten in the eye, flush eye with tap water for 15 minutes and call a doctor.
- If accidentally swallowed, call Poison Control.
- Discontinue use if skin redness occurs.
- Flammable! Keep away from flame or fire.
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness. With flu season now upon us, please help your children
to remember the importance of these simple, yet effective steps-
- Lynn Townsend, RN, School-Based Public Health Nurse