How to clean your hands (rub and wash)
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Clean hands are the most effective way to prevent infections in healthcare. These steps follow the CDC hand hygiene guidance for healthcare workers.
Step by step
When
Before touching a patient, before a clean or sterile task, after contact with body fluids, after touching a patient or their surroundings, and after removing gloves. [1]
Alcohol-based rub is the default
It works faster and is gentler on the skin than soap and water. [1]
How to rub
Enough product to cover all surfaces. Rub palms, backs of hands, between fingers, thumbs and fingertips until dry, about 20 seconds. [1]
Use soap and water when
Hands are visibly dirty, after caring for a patient with C. difficile or norovirus, before eating and after using the restroom. [1]
How to wash
Wet, apply soap, rub all surfaces for at least 15 seconds, rinse, dry with a disposable towel and use it to turn off the faucet. [1]
Keep hands ready
Short nails, no artificial nails, lotion to prevent dry skin. [1]
Common errors
- Missing thumbs and fingertips.
- Putting gloves on wet hands.
- Thinking gloves replace hand hygiene.
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
Sources
Facts and steps follow CDC, Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings. VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.