What is the first step in the hand washing process?

The first step in the hand washing process is to wet your hands with water. Wetting your hands properly is essential because it helps to create a lather when soap is applied, which is crucial for effectively removing dirt, bacteria, and viruses.

Starting with wet hands ensures that the soap can spread more evenly and provides better coverage, enhancing the overall cleaning process. The water should be warm, as this can also improve soap effectiveness and comfort. After wetting the hands, applying soap allows for the next vital steps in the hand hygiene process, which involve scrubbing to remove contaminants.

This initial step sets the stage for proper hand hygiene, making it a key part of the procedure.