This infographic discusses the history and importance of proper hand washing. It notes that in the 19th century, doctors were offended by the idea of washing hands between patients, not realizing this helped spread infection. While hospitals' primary infections are now salmonella, influenza, and sepsis, hand washing techniques can be improved. The infographic provides guidelines for properly washing hands and notes that over-washing can also cause problems for medical professionals. It concludes with citations for further information.

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2. Do You Wash
YOUR
Hands Correctly?
… Because Most People Do Not!

5. 19th Century Hospitals: Places of Harm or Healing?
…In fact…
Some doctors were OFFENDED that
Semelweis would dare to suggest the notion
that they should WASH THEIR HANDS while
working with pregnant patients and patients in
labor.

6. That is almost a full CENTURY of
Public dismissal of scientific evidence!

7. The primary infections and diseases contracted in
hospitals are: Salmonella, Influenza, and Bacterial Sepsis.

9. So… What is the Proper Way to Wash Our Hands?

10. Part of the reason that hospital staff sometimes fail
to sufficiently wash their hands… is because they
are more aware than most of the possible hygienic
problems associated with OVER washing!
It creates a tough situation for our medical
professionals to be in – a “Goldilocks” gambit.

11. An important point to make: Viruses and Bacteria
are NOT the same, and Anti-Bacterial soap do
not affect the spread of Viral diseases!

12. Handwashing is a significant component of many
Cultural Rituals and Practices throughout the World!

13. Resources and Citations:
• http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/27/opinion/27ashenburg.html
• http://www.hardydiagnostics.com/articles/semmelweis-and-handwashing.pdf
• http://www.handwashingforlife.com/the_10_point_history_of_poor_handwashing
• http://kykernel.com/2011/02/07/how-hand-washing-became-habit/
• http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hand-washing/HQ00407
• http://www.everydayhealth.com/cold-and-flu/antibacterial-soap.aspx
• http://online.wsj.com/article/SB126092257189692937.html
• http://www.skincarephysicians.com/eczemanet/hand_dermatitis.html
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
• http://sin.to/en/keidal.html
• http://www.cdc.gov/features/handwashing
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