Choose the most appropriate statement regarding hand washing.

A) Using an alcohol-based hand gel or foam is an effective way to disinfect your hands when there is no visible contaminant

B) Washing your hands with soap and water is the only proper way to disinfect your hands after contact with someone's bare skin

C) When you have visible contaminant on your hands, using an alcohol gel or foam is effective to disinfect as long as you wipe the contaminant off of your hands with a disposable towel first

D) You need to wash your hands with soap and warm running water for a minimum of 2 minutes to properly disinfect them

The most appropriate statement would be "Using an alcohol-based hand gel or foam is an effective way to disinfect your hands when there is no visible contaminant"

There are many proper ways to disinfect your hands, water and soap is not the only option. Alcohol-based products such as gel and foam are great disinfectants because you can take them anywhere and they are extremely effective. These products kill 99% of germs on the applied area. This is a very large percentage which makes it highly effective, even if the contaminant is still on the skin. However, it is best to apply to clean skin after removing the contaminant with water or a towel.

If you are to wash your hands with soap and water, the CDC recommends at least 20 seconds of hot water usage and soap.

Therefore, alcohol-based gel use is an effective option which is why the answer to this question is A)