Integrated Maternal and Newborn Care Basic Skills Course ...

Reference Manual
The Hand Rub
When hand washing is not possible, use of the hand rub is recommended. But so long as
running water is available, the hand rub should not be used as a substitute for attending
deliveries or when the hands are visibly soiled. The materials required are alcohol and a
glycerine solution. The steps in hand rubbing are:
1. Add 2 mL of glycerine, propylene glycol, or sorbitol to 100 mL of 60-90% alcohol.
2. Pour about 1 teaspoon of the rub in the palm of the hand.
3. Rub hands together, including in between the fingers and under the nails, until dry.
4. Wash hands with soap and water after using the hand rub 5 times.
The technique using the alcohol-based formulation is shown in Figure 1.2.
Integrated maternal and newborn care
Basic skills course
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