Which hand hygiene method is most effective for preventing C. diff spread?

Washing hands with soap and water is the most effective method for preventing the spread of Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections. This bacterium produces spores that are resistant to alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which means that these sanitizers do not effectively remove or kill the spores present on the hands. Soap and water, when used properly, can physically remove these spores from the skin's surface, thereby significantly reducing the risk of transmission.

Thorough handwashing involves scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, which helps to ensure that any spores that may have been acquired through contact with contaminated surfaces or individuals are eliminated. This method is particularly important in healthcare settings where the risk of C. diff infection is heightened due to factors like antibiotic use and vulnerable patient populations.

While wearing gloves and using hand wipes can be helpful in certain situations, they do not replace the need for proper handwashing in the case of C. diff, particularly because gloves might not be changed frequently enough to prevent cross-contamination. Hand wipes also do not provide the same level of cleaning as thorough handwashing with soap and water.