I would say proper hand washing method is best for infection control. If your hand is not greasy or soiled then sanitizer is an ok option.but it can't replace hand washing.
the good old hand washing is now considered better in day to day life. The use of sanitizers is also a major cause of microbial resistance that is being developed.
the worst is wearing gloves all day long. I always see that younger employees in particular wear permanent gloves. Because they are protected, they openly embrace everything and distribute it on the computer, on the files and on tables. They distribute bacteria! If someone does not wear gloves, he does not touch anything, or if he has touched something suspicious, he immediately washes his hands. Without gloves he does not spread bacteria! I also prefer washing, but try to prevent a contact.
In addition to what i said earlier.Hand sanitizers are only effective if they have at least 60% alcohol concentration in them. That too if the hands are not really greasy or if the person is not handling heavy metals etc. If the hands are super soiled and greasy then hand washing is recommended.According to CDC 15-60 secs of hand washing eliminates most germs , bacteria. But offcourse its variable according to the type of work you do. Soaps without anti bacterial ingredient in them are as effective as the regular soaps.
I would say proper hand washing method is best for infection control. If your hand is not greasy or soiled then sanitizer is an ok option.but it can't replace hand washing.
Hand washing according to the stipulated recommended time under running water is essential. Recognising that micro-organism hide under dirty finger nails; thorough hand washing is essential, followed by use of a sanitizer.
Hand washing, though preferred, may not be routinely practised by clinical staff if they have a high workload. In these cases, the availability and proper use of sanitizers offers a flexible and efficient alternative and has actually been found to improve compliance.
Hand washing followed by application of at the least 60% alcohol containing sanitizers and letting it dry should be the policy. Anything less than 60% alcohol doesn't work against Norovirus or Cryptosporidium. Plus santizsers are never effective against spore forming organism like Clostridium difficile. Regular assessment of hand washing techniques are a must in modern world. Cutting the corners by dabbing some sanitizer doesn't work. Plus as someone remarked over exposure to sanitizers alone can incease drug resistance. Sanitizers also dont work if you have greasy or fat residue in hand. Studies have also found no major benefit with warm water over room temperature water for hand washing.
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