When is hand washing with soap and water the required method of hand hygiene?

Hand washing with soap and water is the required method of hand hygiene when hands are visibly soiled. The presence of visible dirt, blood, or other contaminants can harbor pathogens and increase the risk of infection. Soap and water effectively remove these visible soiling agents, ensuring that hands are thoroughly cleansed and reducing the likelihood of transmitting infections to patients or oneself.

In instances where hands are not visibly soiled, alternatives such as alcohol-based hand sanitizers may suffice, as they are effective against many pathogens. However, they do not clean hands in the same way as soap and water. This is why proper hand hygiene techniques are critical for infection control in healthcare settings, especially in circumstances involving visible contamination.