Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

What is the most effective way to prevent infection with hands that are not visibly soiled?

1. Non-latex gloves must be used

2. Hands must be washed with soap and water

3. Fingernails must be free of nail polish

4. An alcohol-based gel must be used

The correct answer is: An alcohol-based gel must be used

Using an alcohol-based gel is the most effective way to prevent infection when hands are not visibly soiled because these gels contain high concentrations of alcohol that can kill a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. When hands do not have visible dirt or organic material, the application of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is sufficient for reducing microbial load effectively. This method is convenient, quick, and doesn't require water or the need to dry hands afterward, making it particularly useful in clinical settings. In contrast, while washing hands with soap and water is essential in many scenarios, it is especially important when hands are visibly dirty, as it helps to remove soil and debris. Additionally, although non-latex gloves can provide a barrier, they do not eliminate the need for hand hygiene practices and may not be practical for every situation. Keeping fingernails free of nail polish is a good practice for maintaining hand hygiene, but it does not directly contribute to infection prevention in the same way that effective hand sanitization does. Thus, the use of an alcohol-based gel strikes the right balance of effectiveness and practicality for maintaining hand hygiene in non-soiled conditions.