Ohio Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

How long should staff wash their hands vigorously with soap and water?

1. 5-10 seconds

2. 20-30 seconds

3. 10-15 seconds

4. 1 minute

The correct answer is: 10-15 seconds

The recommended duration for staff to wash their hands vigorously with soap and water is 20-30 seconds. This duration is supported by health organizations and hygiene guidelines, as it is deemed effective in removing dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the hands. Washing hands for this length of time ensures that all surfaces of the hands are cleaned properly, which is essential in preventing the spread of infections, especially in healthcare settings like nursing homes. While washing hands for 10-15 seconds may seem adequate, research indicates that increasing the duration to 20-30 seconds significantly enhances the effectiveness of the handwashing process. Shorter durations, such as 5-10 seconds, are typically not sufficient to ensure thorough cleaning. Washing for 1 minute exceeds the recommended time and is typically unnecessary, which could lead to inefficiencies in hand hygiene practices. Therefore, the 20-30 second guideline is considered optimal for effective handwashing in healthcare environments.