title: Back to the basics: Handwashing.
abstract: Handwashing remains the single most effective means of controlling infection, yet research shows this simple procedure often is not performed by health care providers. This article reviews three studies: one examines the failure of health care personnel to wash their hands between patient contacts, and two deal with alternatives to traditional hand cleansers, such as waterless soaps. Recommendations are included.
authors.affiliation: University of Michigan Hospital, Ann Arbor, USA.
authors.forename: Jeannette L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Barbacane
mesh_terms: D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D012915:Soaps / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D012915:Soaps