Luz Saúde Group joins the celebration of the World Hand Hygiene Day, on May 5, an initiative celebrated for fifteen years now by the World Health Organization. In several units of the Hospital da Luz network, information activities destined to clients are being developed, reminding the importance of washing hands thoroughly, in some cases a brief questionnaire being passed on the topic. “United for safety: wash your hands” is the motto established by WHO for this year, with an appeal to all health professionals, patients and families in the sense of uniting efforts, so as to incorporate in their day to day a simple gesture such as washing the hands. The hands are one of the main means of transmission of bacteria and viruses, therefore an adequate sanitation is essential to protect us all. The hygiene of the hands should be done using water and soap – for instance, after going to the bathroom or before meals. It is also good practice to wash the hands when getting home and after coughing or sneezing. After washing the hands, they should be dried, preferably with a paper towel when not at home. In health units, nursing homes and elderly residences, the hygiene of the hands can be done with water and soap, or using the so-called alcohol-based antiseptic solutions made available to the residents. In this case, hands should be left to air dry. Whatever the product used, the sanitation must involve all the surfaces of the hand, not forgetting the thumb, the palm and the back, as well as the tip of the fingers and the interval between them. Remember: by sanitizing your hands, you protect yourself and others and save lives! WHO: World Hand Hygiene Day 2023
