How long should hands be washed according to standard infection control practices?

Handwashing duration is a critical aspect of infection control practices, particularly in the healthcare setting, including dental practices. The recommended time for effective handwashing is at least 20 seconds. This duration allows for adequate mechanical scrubbing to remove dirt, organic material, and pathogens from the hands.

While many people may think that washing for just 15 seconds is sufficient, studies have shown that this shorter duration does not effectively eliminate more resistant pathogens. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest washing for a minimum of 20 seconds to ensure thorough cleaning. This is often encouraged by counting to 20 or singing a short song to help maintain the necessary duration.

In light of this evidence, the most appropriate answer reflects the importance of a minimum of 20 seconds of handwashing for effective infection control, which is foundational in preventing the spread of infections in dental settings.