What does hand hygiene encompass?

Hand hygiene encompasses both washing hands with soap and water and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers because it involves all practices that help prevent the spread of infections. Proper hand washing with soap and water effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin, making it a fundamental practice in public health.

On the other hand, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers is also a crucial aspect, especially when soap and water are not readily available. These sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands and are particularly effective against various pathogens when used properly.

Together, these two methods form a comprehensive approach to hand hygiene, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission in various settings, such as healthcare facilities and everyday environments. Focusing on just one method, like only washing hands or only using sanitizers, would not be adequate for thorough hygiene practices. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the entirety of hand hygiene practices.