What is a common excuse for not washing hands in healthcare settings?

A common excuse for not washing hands in healthcare settings often revolves around the concern of dryness and irritation of the skin. Healthcare professionals frequently work in environments where they perform hand hygiene repeatedly, which can lead to skin issues if proper care and moisturizers are not utilized. This excuse reflects a significant barrier as the discomfort associated with dry or irritated skin can discourage consistent handwashing practices.

Although factors such as lack of knowledge, irregular work hours, and unavailability of soap can contribute to ineffective hand hygiene practices, they are not as commonly cited as barriers in anecdotal evidence or research. Recognizing the need for both consistent hand hygiene and skin care is essential in addressing this issue effectively. This awareness encourages healthcare professions to make adjustments, such as using moisturizing lotions or choosing gentle soaps, to help mitigate the irritation and promote better compliance with hand hygiene protocols.