Understanding and practicing proper handwashing techniques are essential in helping to stop the spread of the novel Coronavirus.
While all these safety precautions and extra measures that are in place might seem overwhelming, older adults can rest assured that assisted living community in El Cajon is going out of their way not only to keep their residents safe but also come up with creative ways to keep everybody happy, busy, active and in touch with their loved ones.
In the meantime, it is more important than ever that people learn and practice proper handwashing techniques. It is one of the most effective ways to protect oneself and prevent the spread of the virus, and there is really no such thing as too much handwashing in a time like this.
Understandably, there are a lot of questions floating around out there about when and how to properly wash the hands. With that in mind, this article is going to walk through the steps of washing the hands right away. Then, after that, some common questions about handwashing will be answered, so be sure to read to find out more.
Why Handwashing Matters
Coronavirus is a respiratory virus that is commonly spread through the hands.
People naturally touch their face hundreds of times a day, most often without even thinking about it. When the hands come into contact with an infected surface or substance and then somebody brings their hands to their face, they are giving the virus access to the eyes, nose and mouth where it can easily get into the body and take hold.
The good news is that people can also easily help curb the infection by washing their hands frequently throughout the day with both soap and water. It is cheap, simple and effective.
The Proper Way to Wash Hands
Most people already know how to wash their hands, but in order to effectively get rid of the virus, those enjoying an assisted living community in El Cajon will need to make sure they are taking the time to do it right. The following is a step-by-step guide to proper handwashing.
Step One:
Wet the hands and wrists with clear running water and turn off the tap.
Step Two:
Use soap to lather up. Use enough soap to cover the entire surface of the hand invisible bubbles.
Step Three:
Scrub the hands together for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t forget that hand to reach places like between the fingers or under the nails either.
Step Four:
Turn on the tap and rinse the hands by rubbing them together until all the soap residue is gone. Turn off the tap using the wrist.
Step Five:
Use a clean cloth or single-use towel to dry those hands completely.
It’s as simple as that!
Answering Some Common Questions About Handwashing
Even after learning the proper way to wash their hands, people might still have some nagging questions about how and why this works.
With that in mind, these are some answers to some of the more popular questions that people tend to have about handwashing.
Why Is It Important to Wash Those Hands for at Least 20 Seconds?
Twenty seconds is how long it takes to make sure that the virus is successfully scrubbed away. A lot of people assume that a quick splash with water and soap is enough but this isn’t actually the case.
So how long is long enough? After lathering the soap on the hands, either count slowly to 20 or sing the birthday song twice to make sure their hands have been washed for long enough before rinsing the suds away.
It is also important to note that in order for hand sanitizer to be effective. The same 20-second rule applies. This means that it isn’t enough to just apply the hand sanitizer to the skin like lotion. The hands need to be rubbed together for 20-30 seconds in order for it to work well.
When is the Most Important Time to Wash the Hands?
As long as Coronavirus is still uncontained, people should take the time to wash their hands even more than usual.
- After coughing, sneezing or blowing the nose. This applies even if the cough or sneeze was directed at the elbow or tissue was used.
- After visiting any public space. Wash the hands after coming back indoors from outside, regardless if anything was touched or not. Things like door handles, knobs and mailboxes are touched on a frequent basis and could easily be infected.
- After touching something that comes from outside of the home, like money, groceries or mail.
- After coming into contact with another person like a professional staff member that assists in memory care in Santee. Remember that the amazing team at a local luxury retirement community in El Cajon will always go out of their way to provide necessary services in the most sanitary way possible, but it is always a good idea to wash the hands after coming into contact with anybody, no exceptions.
- Before preparing food as well as both before and after eating.
It is a good idea to wash your hands frequently throughout the day regardless, but here are some of the most important times to head to the sink regardless of Coronavirus.
- When the hands look dirty
- After coming into contact with a child who might not have washed their hands properly or changing a diaper.
- After touching a pet or any kind of animal.
- After handling garbage.
- After using the washroom.
Is Warm Water Necessary?
The water can actually be at any temperature. Cold water will kill viruses and germs just as well as warm water.
The most important thing is that soap is used. If there is no soap to use, opt for a hand sanitizer instead. Keep in mind that washing hands with soap is more effective than hand sanitizer though.
Can the Hands Just Air Dry?
While it is better than wiping hands on a used or dirty towel, it is important to note that germs will spread more easily if the skin is wet than they will if it is dry.
Whenever possible to safely do so, it is better to always dry the hands thoroughly.
The Takeaway
Following these Coronavirus measures might be a pain, but the amazing staff as a luxury retirement community at El Cajon will go out of their way to help members stay happy, healthy and active until Coronavirus passes.
