What is the purpose of hand hygiene in health care?

The purpose of hand hygiene in health care is fundamentally aimed at preventing the spread of infections. Hand hygiene, which includes thorough washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, serves as one of the most effective measures to reduce the transmission of pathogens that can lead to healthcare-associated infections. By practicing proper hand hygiene, healthcare aides and professionals protect not only their own health but also the well-being of their patients and colleagues.

Hand hygiene is crucial in various scenarios, such as before and after patient contact, after handling potentially contaminated materials, and before performing procedures. This consistent practice helps to create a safer healthcare environment by significantly lowering the likelihood of infections that can complicate recovery, lead to longer hospital stays, and increase healthcare costs.

Promoting patient comfort, enticing patients to stay longer, or maintaining a sterile environment, while important aspects of patient care, do not directly address the primary role of hand hygiene in reducing infection risks. Therefore, the primary goal of hand hygiene is to prevent the spread of infections, making it a cornerstone of infection control practices in healthcare settings.