Handwashing can be done with either plain soaps or antimicrobial products. Handwashing with soap suspends microorganisms and allows them to be mechanically removed by rinsing. The skin of patients and personnel can function as a reservoir of infectious agents and as a vehicle for transfer of infectious agents to susceptible persons. The microbial flora of the skin consists of resident and transient microorganisms. Resident mi croorganisms persist and multiply on the skin.
Transient microorganisms are contaminants that can survive for only a limited period of time.
Handwashing with plain soaps is effective in removing many transient microorganisms. Resident microorganisms in the deep layers may not be removed by handwashing with plain soaps, but usually can be killed or inhibited by antimicrobial products. Let Dry Up to 5 minutes for Iodophor 3. Best Choice iodophor - at least 5 minute contact time. Do not wash off.