This is a story collection out of the daily life of a Swiss nursing student.
The aim is to share experiences with others. It may be a base for medical discussion.
Note: It doesn't matter where you start. The stories are all independent.
As a matter of fact, now that with the actual situation of the virus COVID-19 (Corona virus) the subject of proper hand hygiene is everywhere, I feel the urge to summarise the most important points to keep in mind.
Is it better to wash or to disinfect the hands? As the COVID-19 virus has an outer fatty coat, soap is the weapon of choice. Disinfection only reduce the bacteria and virus on your hands.
Washing your hands: Rins them with cold or warm water. Take some soap and rub at least 10 seconds. Alternatively you can sing "Happy Birthday" twice. Rins again. Dry your hands well, because humidity is a good environnement for bacteria and virus.
When should I wash my hands? Wash your hands before you leave home, after you come home, before you eat, after you went to toilet, after cleaning your nose, after coughing, after sneezing.
When should I disinfect my hands? If you have the possibility wash your hands as described above. If there isn't a possibility to wash your hands e.g. after using the public transport, after contact with people in public space,...
How long should I disinfect the hands?
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Don't forget proper hand care. Washing and disinfecting may damage the skin of your hands over time. The use of hand cream at least once a day e.g in the evening will help with prevention and for recovery.
Be aware, your hands are a lot in contact with your face, even if you're not aware of those movements. If you reduce those movements, you'll reduce the transmission of bacteria and virus.
If we use this basic actions and are aware of a proper hand hygiene we can fight COVID-19, I'm sure!
If something isn't understandable or you have other questions please write them down in the comments section!
What are your experiences with proper hand hygiene? How is it done? When is it done? Is it done too much or not enough?
