Manual disinfection

Hand Sanitization in Professional Hygiene Management

Hand disinfection is one of the most effective measures for breaking chains of infection. It reduces germs on the skin and contributes significantly to patient safety as well as personal protection. In medical facilities, care settings, laboratories, and workplace environments, consistent hand disinfection is an integral part of standardized hygiene plans and effectively complements the use of other disinfectants.

Depending on the application, alcohol-based solutions or gels are used. Proper hand disinfection is performed on dry hands and covers all skin areas, including the spaces between the fingers, thumbs, and fingertips. The contact time is based on the manufacturer’s instructions and should be strictly adhered to for reliable germ reduction.

Different container sizes and dispenser systems allow for needs-based integration into workflows. Wall dispensers, lab coat bottles, or tabletop dispensers ensure easy access. Thus, hand sanitization forms the foundation for structured and traceable hygiene management.

Hand Antiseptics Before and After Patient Contact

Hand antisepsis refers to the targeted disinfection of hands in specific situations, such as before aseptic procedures or after potentially infectious contact. The goal of hand antisepsis is to effectively reduce the transmission of pathogens and ensure hygiene standards, particularly when used in combination with appropriate disinfectants.

Typical features of modern hand antisepsis products:

• Broad spectrum of activity against bacteria, yeasts, and enveloped viruses
• Short contact times for efficient work processes
• Skin-friendly formulations for frequent use
• Available as a solution or gel
• Compatibility with common dispenser systems

The product range includes established formulations such as Sterillium classic pure, which is frequently used in medical settings. BODE Sterillium Virugard is also widely used and is recommended for expanded spectrum of activity. For users with sensitive skin, Schülke desderman—free of dyes and fragrances —offers a suitable alternative that integrates well into existing protocols with other disinfectants.

The selection of a suitable hand sanitizer should be based on the intended use, skin type, and institutional guidelines.

Hand Sanitizers in Everyday Work

Hand sanitizers are ready-to-use formulations for hygienic and, where necessary, surgical hand disinfection. They are used in facilities with an increased risk of infection as well as in areas with regular public traffic. A hand sanitizer should be well-tolerated and provide rapid, reliable efficacy, and represents a central form modern hand sanitizer.

Apply to dry hands. Place a sufficient amount of hand sanitizer in the palms of your hands and rub thoroughly. Keep your hands moist throughout the entire application time. Disinfection is not complete until the sanitizer has dried completely.

Hand sanitizer should be stored away from heat sources and in accordance with safety guidelines. To prevent evaporation, containers should be kept tightly closed. Proper handling ensures long-lasting effectiveness.

Medical Hand Disinfection as Part of a Comprehensive Approach

Medical hand disinfection is part of a comprehensive infection control system. It complements measures such as skin disinfection, surface disinfection, and the wearing of appropriate protective equipment. Only the interaction of these components ensures a high level of safety in the work environment.

• Skin disinfection
• Surface disinfection
• Disposable gloves
• Cleaning agents
• Dispenser systems

The combination of medical hand sanitizer and other hygiene products creates a comprehensive solution that meets the requirements of the medical, nursing, and other sensitive sectors.