Safety & Infection ControlQuestion 61 of 200

Alcohol-based hand rub is preferred over soap and water EXCEPT when:

a.Hands are visibly soiled, after caring for a C. difficile or norovirus patient, before eating, after toileting
b.After removing gloves
c.Before donning gloves
d.Between residents

Explanation

CDC guidance: alcohol-based hand rub (60-95% alcohol) is preferred for most clinical encounters because it is fast and more effective than handwashing for non-spore organisms. However, soap-and-water handwashing is required when hands are visibly soiled, after caring for C. difficile or norovirus (spores survive alcohol), before eating, and after using the restroom. Other situations (b, c, d) are appropriate for alcohol rub.

Law Reference: CDC hand hygiene

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