In proper handwashing, which is the fourth step?

• A. Wet your hands with clean water
• B. Apply soap, lather by rubbing hands together; be sure to rub all surfaces
• C. Thoroughly rinse hands under running water
• D. Use paper towels or an air dryer

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is the order of actions that effectively remove germs during handwashing. After you wet your hands and lather with soap, the next essential step is to rinse thoroughly under running water. Rinsing washes away the soap along with the dirt and microbes that the soap lifted from your skin. Skipping or rushing this step leaves soap residue and loosened germs on your hands, which defeats the goal of cleanliness. Drying comes after rinsing, using a clean towel or air dryer to remove moisture so your hands stay dry and less likely to harbor or transfer germs. So the correct fourth action is to rinse completely under running water.