Hand Hygiene: November 2025 Competency

Hand hygiene is the single most effective action to prevent healthcare-associated infections across home care, hospice, and inpatient hospice settings. Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) is preferred when hands are not visibly soiled; use soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or after caring for patients with suspected/confirmed C. difficile and/or Norovirus. This station validates technique, timing, and adherence to policy.

Nails & Appearance Standards (Required for Validation)

To protect patients and staff, artificial/acrylic nails, overlays, or nail tips are not permitted for clinicians participating in patient care. Natural nails must be kept short and reduce the risk of transmitting infections (at or below the fingertip; approximately ≤ ¼ inch/0.5 cm). Please see the below regulatory reference (below).

What We Validate at This Station

• Correct use of alcohol-based hand rub (volume, full surface coverage, rub until dry).
• When to use soap and water (visible soil; after restroom; after C. difficile care; before eating).
• Nails and adornments meet policy (short, natural nails; no artificial enhancements at any time for clinical care).

If technique is not satisfactory on the first attempt, you’ll review provided content and return for a second attempt during your session (as time allows). If still unsatisfactory, you’ll be scheduled for 1:1 re-skill on November 19, 2025 between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, per standard process.