Skills Hub
infection-control
Hand Hygiene
Always tested on the CCMA
The single most important measure to reduce pathogen transmission in any healthcare setting.
About this skill
Proper hand hygiene using antiseptic soap, warm water, and a structured scrub sequence. Covers both handwashing and the CDC-recommended alcohol-based hand rub technique for situations when hands are not visibly soiled.
11 total steps
4 critical steps
Time limit: 2 min
What graders are watching for
- 1Scrub for at least 20 seconds
- 2Use a nail brush for subungual cleaning
- 3Faucet handles are contaminated — use a paper towel to shut off
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- !Skipping the 20-second scrub time
- !Reaching across the sink (contaminates sleeves)
- !Using hot water (opens pores and increases irritation)
Practice this skill step-by-step
The static walkthrough above is the marketing overview. The full step-by-step interactive practice (with critical-step highlighting, per-step "why this matters" rationale, and what graders watch for on each individual step) is unlocked with a subscription.
Related infection control skills
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — Donning
The CDC sequence for putting on PPE without contaminating yourself or the patient.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — Doffing
The CDC sequence for removing PPE without self-contaminating.
Establishing and Maintaining a Sterile Field
Open and maintain a sterile field without contaminating it.