In the described hand-washing procedure, what is the final step to complete hand hygiene safely?

• A. Turn off faucet with a new paper towel
• B. Dry hands using a towel
• C. Rinse hands
• D. Apply soap

Answer: (A)

Preventing recontamination after washing is the key idea. The final step is to use a fresh disposable paper towel to turn off the faucet. This keeps clean hands from touching potentially dirty faucet handles and then allows you to discard the towel. Drying the hands and the earlier steps (getting soap, lathering, rinsing) happen before this, and drying is done prior to using the towel to shut off the faucet. Using a new paper towel for the faucet ensures the hands stay as clean as possible until the procedure is complete.