skip to main content

Hand Hygiene Soap vs ABHR — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyInfection Prevention & ControlHand Hygiene Soap vs ABHRSCE Infectious Diseases

A hospital infection prevention team reviews hand hygiene compliance data. Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) is the standard method. In which specific clinical scenario is soap and water hand washing REQUIRED instead of ABHR?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — After caring for a patient with Clostridioides difficile infection or norovirus

Alcohol-based hand rub is effective against most bacteria and enveloped viruses but does NOT kill C. difficile spores or norovirus. Physical removal by friction with soap and water is required for these organisms. NICE and UKHSA IPC guidelines mandate soap and water hand washing after contact with patients with suspected or confirmed CDI or norovirus. ABHR remains the standard for all other hand hygiene opportunities as per the WHO 5 moments framework.

Reference: NICE QS113 – Infection prevention and control; UKHSA 2024 – Hand hygiene guidance