What is the importance of hand hygiene in patient care?

Hand hygiene is vital in patient care because it significantly helps prevent the spread of infections. Proper handwashing or the use of hand sanitizer eliminates germs and pathogens that can be transmitted from healthcare providers to patients, between patients, or even from the environment. This practice is essential in reducing healthcare-associated infections, which can lead to severe complications or prolonged hospital stays for patients.

In the healthcare setting, practitioners are in close contact with patients and surfaces that could be contaminated. Regular and effective hand hygiene practices contribute to a safe care environment and promote overall patient safety. This understanding is supported by guidelines from health organizations, emphasizing that hand hygiene should be routinely performed in various situations, not just during specific moments like before surgical procedures but throughout all patient interactions.