Title: Handwashing Assignment
Course: PHT 2301 Pathological Condition in PT > Section: Module 1

Post this assignment in Module 3.

Hand washing is a critical component to reducing the spread of infection and plays a role in all aspect of our lives. While many in the healthcare professions may place more focus on this activity than those in the general population, it remains important for all to realize the part that they can play in minimizing the spread of disease. For this assignment, I would like for you to put your observation skills to work by observing the hand washing practices of those around you. Select 2 different environments to complete your observation. You will need to spend some time doing this to really get a good picture of what is the typical trend when it comes to hand washing.

How often do you see people wash their hands before using the bathroom? How many wash their hands after using the bathroom? What about before, during, or after handling food? Try to observe someplace that a large number of people come and go. You may do this activity over several days as opposed to “parking” somewhere for 2 hours and watching people. Once you have completed the observation, please submit a report that identifies the 2 environments that you chose and what you observed. Include in your report the approximate number of “subjects” you observed and detailed numbers related to your observations. Additionally, include any other comments you believe to be relevant to this topic. For example—people stop to wash their hands but don’t use soap; or people wash their hands but don’t observe the hand washing techniques related to “good hand washing” such as not touching the faucet or door handles after they wash. Do you feel the general public demonstrates a good awareness of hand washing? Do you feel there is a need for education on this topic? What are your general opinions?

This assignment is worth 25 points.

Your paper should be a minimum of 1-2 pages in length and should be submitted by the posted due date. You will have 3 weeks to complete this assignment. See the Grading Rubric for Hand Washing Assignment.docx  for grading details.