How long should hands be lathered and scrubbed during aseptic handwashing?

Lathering and scrubbing hands for 20 seconds during aseptic handwashing is recommended because this duration is based on studies that show it is sufficient to effectively remove dirt, germs, and pathogens from the skin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations emphasize that a minimum of 20 seconds of scrubbing helps to ensure thorough coverage of all surfaces of the hands, including between fingers, under nails, and around the wrists.

This time frame not only supports proper hygiene but also aligns with best practices in infection prevention and control. When hands are lathered for 20 seconds, it's possible to achieve a higher level of microbial reduction, which is critical in a sterile processing environment where maintaining sterility is vital to patient safety.

In contrast, durations shorter than 20 seconds might not provide enough time to eliminate all potentially harmful microorganisms on the hands. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to the 20-second guideline to maximize efficacy in aseptic handwashing techniques.