WHO 5 Moments of Hand Hygiene | Hand Rub for Indian Hospitals
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a serious threat in Indian hospitals, where high patient volumes and humidity amplify transmission risks. The WHO's 5 Moments framework gives healthcare workers a clear, evidence-backed protocol for when to practice hand hygiene — and using the right hand rub at each moment is what makes compliance effective.
The 5 Moments at a Glance
Before touching a patient — Apply an alcohol-based hand rub before patient contact to eliminate surface pathogens.
Before clean/aseptic procedures — Use a skin antiseptic or hand rub immediately before IV insertions or wound care to prevent pathogen transmission.
After body fluid exposure — Perform hand hygiene and post-glove removal using a hand sanitizer to protect both staff and environment.
After touching a patient — Decontaminate with a hand rub before leaving the patient zone.
After touching patient surroundings — Clean hands after contact with bed rails, IV stands, or any patient-area equipment.
Sterillium: The Gold-Standard Hand Rub
Sterillium by Raman & Weil is formulated with 75% ethanol and certified to DIN EN 1500 standards — effective against bacteria (including MRSA), fungi, and SARS-CoV-2.
Hygienic use: 3 ml, rub for 30 seconds up to wrists
Surgical use: 9 ml for 1.5 minutes up to elbows — qualifying it as a full surgical hand scrub solution
Acts as a "chemical glove" — broad-spectrum efficacy without compromising skin health
Its moisturising formula prevents dermatitis from repeated use, unlike a harsh antiseptic solution or liquid hand wash
As a skin antiseptic for pre-operative preparation, Sterillium delivers high microbial reduction with no sticky residue — supporting surgical teams during pre-op prep alongside other antiseptic solutions.
Implementation Checklist for Indian Hospitals
Install hand rub dispensers at point-of-care (where sinks are limited, water-free alcohol-based hand rubs are especially critical)
Train staff using WHO 5 Moments posters
Run quarterly audits — compliance can cut HAIs by up to 50%
Pair hand hygiene protocols with surface disinfectant and surface disinfectant wipes for full infection control coverage
Sterillium aligns with NABH guidelines and is backed by extensive clinical data — making it the reliable choice for hand rub and skin antiseptic needs across Indian healthcare settings.












