When do you HAVE to complete handwashing instead of handrubbing?

• A. If hands are dry
• B. If hands are clean
• C. If visibly dirty, soiled, or contaminated
• D. If gloves are worn

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that hand hygiene method depends on how clean the hands are. Alcohol-based hand rubs work well for routine decontamination when hands aren’t visibly dirty. But when hands are visibly dirty, soiled, or contaminated with substances, you must wash with soap and water. The mechanical action of washing plus the detergent removes dirt and reduces contaminants more effectively, including things that rubs may not fully eliminate. Gloves don’t replace this step—you still wash before donning gloves and after removing them to ensure any transfer from contaminated surfaces is minimized.