UV gel method for hand hygiene demostration

The UV gel method is an effective and visual way to demonstrate proper hand hygiene, often used in training sessions for healthcare workers, food service employees, and educational settings. This method shows how germs can remain on your hands even after washing, unless proper techniques are used.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use UV gel for hand hygiene demonstrations:

Materials Needed:

1. UV Gel (like GlitterBug or Glo Germ Lotion): This mimics germs and is invisible to the naked eye.
2. UV Light (Blacklight): To reveal where the “germs” are left behind on the hands.
3. Soap and water: For hand washing.
4. Towel or air dryer: To dry hands after washing.

Steps for Hand Hygiene Demo with UV Gel:

1. Apply UV Gel

• Apply a small amount of UV gel on the hands of each participant. Encourage them to rub the gel all over their hands, covering the palms, backs of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails—similar to how they would apply lotion.

2. Observe Hands Under UV Light (Pre-Wash)

• Shine the UV light on participants’ hands to reveal the gel under the blacklight. The areas where the gel is present will glow brightly, simulating areas that are “contaminated” with germs.
• This step emphasizes how germs are present all over the hands before washing.

3. Wash Hands

• Have participants wash their hands as they normally would using soap and water. Instruct them to wash for at least 20-30 seconds, ensuring they scrub all parts of the hands, including:
  • Palms
  • Backs of hands
  • Between fingers
  • Under the nails
  • Wrists

4. Observe Hands Under UV Light (Post-Wash)

• After washing, dry hands using a towel or air dryer.
• Shine the UV light on their hands again to check for any remaining gel (germs).
• Areas that are still glowing indicate places where they didn’t wash properly, such as under the nails, between the fingers, or the backs of the hands.

Why the UV Gel Method is Effective:

• Visual Impact: The glowing gel provides a powerful visual reminder of how easy it is to miss germs, even with a quick hand wash.
• Interactive Learning: Participants experience firsthand how effective (or ineffective) their current handwashing habits are.
• Immediate Feedback: Participants can instantly see which parts of their hands they need to pay more attention to in the future.
• Memorable: The UV gel method makes hand hygiene training more engaging, helping participants retain the lesson better.

This method is an excellent tool for teaching the importance of proper hand hygiene in any setting, promoting both awareness and long-term behavioral change.