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Evidence summaries

Handrubbing with an Alcohol Based Solution Vs. Conventional Handwashing with Antiseptic Soap

Handrubbing with an alcohol based solution appears to be significantly more efficient in reducing hand contamination than handwashing with antiseptic soap. Level of evidence: "C"

A randomized controlled trial 1 compared the efficacy of handrubbing with an alcohol based solution vs. conventional handwashing with antiseptic soap in reducing hand contamination during routine patient care. 23 healthcare workers participated.

With handrubbing the median percentage reduction in bacterial contamination was significantly higher than with handwashing (83% v 58%, P=0.012), with a median difference in the percentage reduction of 26% (95% confidence interval 8% to 44%). The median duration of hand hygiene was 30 seconds in each group.

Comment: The quality of evidence is downgraded by sparse data and potential reporting bias (no systematic literature search was performed).

    References

    • Girou E, Loyeau S, Legrand P, Oppein F, Brun-Buisson C. Efficacy of handrubbing with alcohol based solution versus standard handwashing with antiseptic soap: randomised clinical trial. BMJ 2002 Aug 17;325(7360):362. [PubMed]

Primary/Secondary Keywords