Hand-washing Guidelines
While your baby is in the NICU, they can be very susceptible to infection. To help decrease the spread of germs, we must all take special care. Hand-washing is one of the MOST effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. In the NICU, you will use antiseptic soap and alcohol hand sanitizers to help kill germs on your hands, wrists, and arms. Before going to your baby’s room, remove all jewelry from the elbow down and follow these hand-washing guidelines posted at the sink:
-
Wash hands and arms up to the elbow with soap and water for two minutes at the scrub sink when you enter the pod. Pay special attention to cleaning under your nails and between your fingers.
-
Dry your arms and hands with a paper towel.
-
Apply two squirts of Purell Surgical Scrub in the palm of one hand and work the scrub from fingertips to elbow. Repeat this procedure on the opposite hand and arm. Rub until completely dry. Do not rinse off.
A note to our families and precious loved ones,
With lots of loves from your daughters and sons:
You're the best part of my day! I can't wait to see you!
But before we make contact, there's one thing to see to.
My body's not ready to fight germs from outside,
So please wash up well before visiting bedside!
First roll those sleeves up, and remove jewelry and bands,
Lather warm water and soap, from elbows to hands.
For the next 2-3 minutes, it's time to rub-a-dub-dub,
Don't forget your nails! They too need a good scrub.
Next rinse the soap off, with arms down toward the trough,
Then grab paper towels to dry everything off.
The last step is surgical scrub, to ensure you are clean,
Rub on arms, hands, and fingers, and all in between!
Washing well takes some time, but it's a small price to pay
to avoid the risk of lengthening my stay!
Once you're done, I am ready for your loving touch!
It brings comfort and healing that I need so much!
By Allison Planchak, Mom of Will, former 24 weeker
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
Reviewed on: 6/2024