Hand hygiene is an essential part of my daily activities, not just because I work in healthcare industry, but because I understand its importance in preventing infections and maintaining personal hygiene. Every day, from the moment I wake up to the time I go to bed, hand hygiene plays a key role in my daily routine.

At work, hand hygiene becomes even more critical. As a nursing professional and infection control head, I strictly follow the WHO’s 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene:

Before touching a patient

Before any clean or aseptic procedure

After exposure to body fluids

After touching a patient

After touching patient surroundings

We also conduct regular audits to ensure compliance in my healthcare facility, and I try to lead by example. I use alcohol-based hand rubs(Microgen and 3M companey) in between tasks when soap and water are not immediately available. The key is consistency and awareness is not just following protocols but understanding why they matter.

Both hand washing and sanitizer are important, but I know that according to Rahul, washing hands are more effective, especially when the hands are dirty or after using toilet. Soap and water removes dirt and germs well. But when there is no water and soap, the sanitizer is very useful. I sanitize hands between patients while traveling or in the hospital. But whenever I get a chance, I like to wash my hands. Both have their own advantages, just the right way should be adopted at the right time.

Yes, I have made my Community Members many times aware of the importance of hand hygiene. I work as an infection control head in the hospital, so this is also a part of my regular work. I have taken small group sessions where people taught people how to wash hands properly, and told when it is necessary to wash hands. Sometimes by applying posters and in Awareness Week, quiz or demo activities have also been done so that people can learn an actively. Apart from this, teaching children in a playful manner is more effective.

Today I celebrated World Hand Hygiene Day with my Hospital Community. On this special occasion, we not only explained the importance of cleaning the hand, but also placed a small training session in which all staff was taught the right way-as when the hands should be washed, how long and what steps should be followed. Along with visual demonstration, posters and reminders were also displayed so that everyone would follow it everyday.

We tried to create a fun and interactive atmosphere, so that everyone can not only learn but also participate actively. After training we honored "Best Hand Hygiene Performer" with a small appreciation certificate and cake cutting. This small gesture was motivation for them and inspiration for all others. Celebration increased the staff's enthusiasm and awareness.

I think the best way to improve Hand Hygiene in Community is Regular Awareness, Right Training and Creating a little positivity. When people are appreciate, they try to do better. In the coming days, I am planning more such small events and monitoring activities so that we can strengthen the infection control.

THANK YOU