Nursing Handwashing Procedure

Hello! Let's work through this question about proper hand-washing technique in a clinical setting. Looking at the scenario, a nurse is washing their hands with soap and water before repositioning a client. We need to identify which action is required during this process.

Let's evaluate the first option: making sure that the water is hot. While the water should be warm, hot water should actually be avoided because it can increase the risk of skin irritation and dermatitis, which can harbor more bacteria.

So, we can rule out the first option. Warm water is the standard.

Next, let's look at the second option: washing for at least fifteen seconds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and typical nursing protocols, when using soap and water, you should scrub your hands for at least fifteen to twenty seconds to effectively remove pathogens.

This looks like a strong candidate because it is a fundamental requirement for effective hand hygiene. Let's keep it in mind as we check the others.