Hand sanitizers were developed for use after washing hands or for those times when soap and water are not available. They are gels that contain alcohol in order to kill the germs present on the skin. The alcohol works immediately and effectively in order to kill bacteria and most viruses. Alcohol can be very drying to the skin, so most brands of sanitizers also contain a moisturizer to minimize skin dryness and irritation. To use hand sanitizers effectively, place a small amount, the size of your thumbnail, on the palm of your hand and rub it over your entire hand, including in your nail beds. If the gel completely evaporates in less than 15 seconds, you have not used enough product.
The use of hand sanitizers is a habit that can help keep us all exposed to fewer germs, and therefore may decrease our chance of illness. Whether you are on the playground, using someone else’s computer or visiting a friend in the hospital, take the time to rub some on your hands. It is an easy step toward a healthy winter season.
Hand sanitizers can be found in the entrances to nursing home, each resident room, the public restroom and other public areas of the facility. We all know the importance of proper handwashing in reducing harmful germ transmission. Hand sanitizers offer an effective alternative.
