What is the proper way to wash hands to prevent infection?

Washing hands properly is essential in preventing infection, as it helps remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses that can lead to illness. The correct method involves using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This duration is significant because it allows enough time for the soap to effectively break down any contaminants on the skin.

During these 20 seconds, it is important to scrub all parts of the hands, including between fingers, under nails, and around the wrists. The friction created during washing, combined with the soap, helps to lift and rinse away harmful microbes.

While using hand sanitizer is effective in many situations, it is not a substitute for washing with soap and water, especially when hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Washing hands only when they look dirty fails to prevent infections that can occur from contact with surfaces or people, where germs may be present even if they are not visible.

Therefore, option B reflects the best practice for hand hygiene by specifying both the correct duration and the use of soap and water, aligning with guidelines provided by health authorities for preventing the spread of infections.