03 Oct, 2014
Alcohol‐based hand rub (ABHR) – routine use
ABHR is the preferred method for routine hand hygiene in VCH immunization settings if hands are not visibly soiled. Hands should be washed with soap and water when visibly dirty or visibly soiled with blood or other body fluids or after using the toilet. There may be misconceptions that ABHR can only be used a certain number of times before it becomes ineffective or hands need to be washed. This is not the case and there is no reason to wash hands after using ABHR multiple times, other than for personal preference or hands become soiled.
Glove Use – not routinely recommended
Glove use during immunization is not routinely recommended, unless the vaccinator has open hand lesions or will come into contact with potentially infectious body fluids. Further to this:
Unnecessary use of gloves may provide a false sense of security, leading to decreased hand washing. Additionally, inappropriate use of gloves (i.e. not changing them between patients, not washing hands between use) leads to the transmission of infectious agents between patients.
References
BCCDC Immunization Manual Chapter 2, Section IV – Administration of Biological Products October 2008 Page 7
Canadian Immunization Guide: Vaccine Administration
Public Health Agency of Canada: Routine Practices and Additional Precautions for Prevention the Transmission of Infection in Health Care
World Health Organization: Alcohol Based Handrub Risks/Hazards