Handwashing in USMLE Step II CS

[Anne2009]

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What is the consensus on handwashing? In the First Aid review book for CS it mentions washing your hands between the history and physical...though I've always been taught to wash your hands upon entering the room, before shaking hands. Does it matter, or am I just splitting hairs? Would I just wash my hands twice? Also, should we wash our hands again before leaving the room?

On another note - in the orientation video online the students are shown washing with soap and water or using gloves. Are alcohol hand sanitizers also available? Just seems quicker than washing with soap and water. Not sure if every location is identical.

Thanks for any input 🙂

 

[seva86]

from what I remember, the options were soap/water or gloves. I used gloves for every encounter, and put them on between the H&P. I always asked, "do you mind if I wear gloves?" before I went to put them on. thought that saved me time, but I guess the bottom line is personal preference.

 

[uchicago]

Wither it's gloves or washing, I think it is better between H and P. Personally I preferred washing, and kept asking the pt some questions while washing, that way I keep contact with him/her all the time.

 

[aliDO]

I know for comlex PE (which I know is different) it is best to wash when entering if you are going to shake hands and then after the history before you touch the patient. I only washed when entering and was terrified they were going to fail me, but it all worked out. I'm not sure how strict the USMLE is though. To be careful, the more the better. We could use foam so it did not take up much time.