When should hand antiseptics be used in a microbiology laboratory setting?

• A. Instead of washing hands with soap and water at all times
• B. After washing hands with soap and water, especially when handling hazardous materials
• C. Only before leaving the laboratory
• D. Only when hands are visibly dirty

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of hand antiseptics in a microbiology laboratory: they are used to reduce microbial load on hands when soap and water washing is not immediately possible or as an additional step after washing.
2. Recognize that washing hands with soap and water is the primary and most effective method to physically remove dirt, organic material, and microbes, especially when hands are visibly dirty.
3. Identify that hand antiseptics are most appropriately used after washing hands with soap and water to further reduce microbial contamination, particularly when handling hazardous materials that pose a risk of infection or contamination.
4. Note that using hand antiseptics only before leaving the laboratory or only when hands are visibly dirty is insufficient because it does not ensure proper removal of contaminants or adequate microbial kill.
5. Conclude that the best practice is to wash hands with soap and water first, then apply hand antiseptics as an additional protective measure, especially after contact with hazardous materials.