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Proper hand washing

Proper hand washing

Overview

Steps for proper hand washing include:

  1. Take off any jewelry.
  2. Hold your hands pointing down under warm water for 15 to 30 seconds.
  3. Clean under your nails. Rinse well.
  4. Dry with a clean towel.

Proper hand washing is the best way to avoid spreading germs to help prevent infection.

Review Date 11/1/2015

Updated by: Laura J. Martin, MD, MPH, ABIM Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Atlanta, GA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.