What is the best practice for acupuncturists with visibly dirty hands?

Using soap and water is the best practice for acupuncturists with visibly dirty hands because it effectively removes not only visible dirt and filth but also a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. Soap works by binding to dirt and oils on the skin, enabling their removal through rinsing, while the mechanical action of scrubbing enhances this process.

Additionally, while alcohol hand sanitizer is effective in killing many germs, it is not as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. The presence of soil can inhibit the sanitizer’s ability to penetrate and eliminate pathogens effectively. In contrast, using soap and water ensures a thorough cleaning, which is crucial for maintaining hygiene standards in a clinical setting.

When hands appear clean but might still contain harmful microorganisms, using either soap and water or alcohol hand sanitizer would be appropriate, but in the case of visible dirt, soap and water is unequivocally preferred. This choice ensures not only compliance with health and safety regulations but also promotes the wellbeing of both practitioners and patients.