Which hand hygiene method is recommended by healthcare guidelines?

The recommended hand hygiene method according to healthcare guidelines is hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers. This approach is supported by extensive research indicating that both methods are effective in reducing the transmission of pathogens. When soap and water are used, the mechanical action of scrubbing along with the surfactant properties of soap helps to remove dirt, organic material, and microbes from the skin. In instances where soap and water are not immediately available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers have been shown to significantly reduce the number of germs, provided they contain a sufficient concentration of alcohol (at least 60-70%).

The other methods listed do not align with evidence-based practices for effective hand hygiene. Using only antibacterial soap may not be necessary since regular soap effectively removes bacteria and does not significantly reduce infection risk more than standard handwashing. Wiping hands on clothing does not adequately clean hands and does not remove pathogens, potentially leading to cross-contamination. Soaking hands in sanitizing solutions for long periods may pose risks such as skin irritation or injury and is not an effective or practical method for hand hygiene. Thus, the recommended approach combines both methods of washing hands effectively with soap and water or utilizing alcohol-based sanitizers when needed.