STOP - What was the last thing you touched as a Nurse? Did you wash your hands?
Handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you. At Saving Grace Medical Academy, we emphasize its importance—so much so that students often ask, "Why do you make us wash our hands before class?"
Our answer is simple yet thought-provoking:"You’re a healthcare professional... Have you ever thought about what we touch every day in a hospital?"
The student quickly understood and washed their hands. But why is this so critical, both inside and outside the classroom?
Hand Sanitizer "cannot" replace hand washing!
From belly buttons to bums, hand washing is your best friend!
The Benefits of Handwashing
Prevents the Spread of Germs and IllnessesWashing your hands properly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds significantly reduces the spread of viruses and bacteria. It protects against common illnesses such as colds, the flu, and gastrointestinal infections, as well as serious diseases like COVID-19. This is especially vital in healthcare and public settings, where shared surfaces and close interactions can increase transmission risks.
Protects Vulnerable PopulationsProper hand hygiene safeguards not only your health but also those around you—particularly individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and young children. By minimizing the spread of germs, you play a crucial role in protecting at-risk individuals.
Reduces Foodborne IllnessesHandwashing is essential in food preparation and consumption. Harmful pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella can be transferred from unwashed hands to food, leading to outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Whether you’re a chef or cooking at home, clean hands ensure safer meals for everyone.
Lowers Healthcare CostsPreventing illnesses through basic hygiene practices like handwashing reduces the burden on healthcare systems, saving time, money, and resources.
Promotes Public HealthRegular handwashing reduces the spread of infections across communities. It’s a simple step that contributes to overall public health and safety, benefiting schools, workplaces, and hospitals alike.
When Should You Wash Your Hands?
Before and after eating or preparing food.
After using the restroom.
Before and after caring for someone who is sick.
After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
After touching garbage or shared surfaces.
"My face when I meet nursing students"
You know what you touch in Nursing school.....
At Saving Grace Medical Academy, we’ve been teaching life-saving skills and essential health practices since 2011. From Basic Life Support to First Aid training, we prepare healthcare professionals and individuals to protect themselves and their communities.
Learn Basic Life Support Today & Save a Life Tomorrow. Invest in your health and others' by starting with the basics—like washing your hands. Enroll in a course at Saving Grace Medical Academy and make a difference in your community.
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Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor