In proper hand hygiene, which action should be performed first?

• A. Wet hands with warm water, apply soap.
• B. Turn off water with paper towel after drying.
• C. Apply friction for at least 15 seconds.
• D. Dry hands with paper towel, limit contact time.

Answer: (A)

Starting hand hygiene with wet hands under clean running water sets up the process so soap can work effectively. Wetting creates a surface for soap to spread and lift oils and microbes from the skin, which is how the cleaning action begins. After wetting, you apply soap and rub all hand surfaces for the recommended duration to physically remove germs. Rinsing then washes away the soap and loosened dirt, followed by drying with a disposable towel and using that towel to turn off the faucet to prevent recontamination. The other steps are important, but they come after you’ve properly wet and soaped your hands.