Which step is performed second in the hand washing procedure?

• A. Turn on faucet and wet hands
• B. Use soap and scrub hands for 20 seconds
• C. Rinse hands from fingertips to wrists
• D. Use one paper towel per hand to dry off fingers to wrist

Answer: (B)

The step being tested is the progression from prep to cleaning surfaces. After you turn on the faucet and wet your hands, the next action is to apply soap and scrub. Soap helps lift dirt and microbes from the skin, and the scrubbing motion physically removes them from all areas of the hands, including between fingers and under nails. Doing this for about 20 seconds ensures you cover every surface thoroughly. Rinsing comes after scrubbing to wash away the loosened germs, followed by drying with a clean towel and using that towel to turn off the faucet. This sequence prevents recontamination and makes hand hygiene effective.