So did you know it’s Clean Hands Week? (September 20-26) From all we’ve heard about how to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus, good hand hygiene is key. Funny–my germophobe ways don’t seem so odd now. Hand sanitizer, anyone?
Seriously, though, Americans really do need to go back to school when it comes to washing their hands. Here’s what a recent Soap and Detergent Association survey found:
– 50% say they wash their hands more than 10 times per day (up from 36%).
– 70% wash up at least 7 times per day (up from 62%).
– Across the board, more Americans claim to always wash their hands before eating lunch, after coughing or sneezing and after using the bathroom.
However….
– While 62% of women are washing more than 10 times per day, only 37% of men are doing the same.
– 39% of respondents seldom or never wash their hands after coughing or sneezing (on par with 2008). (Hey, that’s a reason to retrain yourself to sneeze into the crook of your arm.)
– 46% of respondents wash their hands for 15 seconds or less (on par with 2008). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and SDA recommend washing with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds. (I try to sing “Happy Birthday” twice when washing my hands.)
Sure, all this cold and flu frenzy will probably increase soap sales. But you know what? If it keeps more people healthy–and we therefore don’t lose pay by having to stay home sick–I’m all for reminding people about the importance of washing their hands.
READ LEAH ON HOME GOES STRONG
We’re entering a test window right now at school. That means we’re sharing the computer lab extensively. The parapro in charge wipes down the computers each morning, and we offer hand sanitizer or handwashing to every child who walks in the lab.
During testing today a spider fell from the ceiling and got caught on my glasses. Well, at least it was a clean spider – by the time I squished it.
Leah, another really great way to avoid germs on hands is to simply use your OWN pen in the checkout line at the stores to sign any signatures required of you. I always have my pen in hand by the time the cashier hands me the slip and her pen. I simply smile and say, “I have my own pen.” (How many folk have used her pen she keeps at her register? I am the ONLY one who uses mine!) As an RN, I like to be aware of little mistakes that can cause huge problems. Love your site!
Thanks for posting a comment and for sharing the love! I, too, like to use my own pen for this reason. Plus, if I’ve been grocery shopping, I’ve got the pen out anyway to check things off my list! I’m glad you mentioned this, though. It’s a great reminder for the other readers.
Leah