Abstract overview:
Hand hygiene is an effective healthcare-associated infection (HCAI) control and prevention method. Several studies have shown that the hands of healthcare personnel contaminated with hospital microflora are among the riskiest ways of transmitting HCAI. It has also been shown, that consistent hand disinfection significantly reduces the incidence of HCAI. Midwifery students as a part of healthcare teams undertake a large part of the treatment and care of patients during their clinical practice. Education and training in hand hygiene have an important role in giving midwifery students the knowledge, attitudes, and skills toward HCAI prevention.

Aims and objectives:
This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of education in practicing hand hygiene among midwifery students.

Method:
The sample consisted of 20 students in the first and 20 students in the third year of study at the faculty. Participants were assessed on hand hygiene practices using a “Derma LiteCheck” device to determine how effectively they washed their hands and used alcohol disinfection. We identified the most critical areas of their hands giving them feedback.

Results:
We detected that the most frequently omitted part during hand disinfection among first-year students was the area on the back of the right hand. Other problematic areas were the tip of the thumb and the spaces between the fingers. For third-year students, it was the spaces between the fingers.

Conclusion:
Hand hygiene training, which includes visual concretization of the effectiveness of handwashing and disinfection, can be an effective strategy for improving attitudes and skills among midwifery students regarding handwashing. Using UV light and fluorescent gel provides immediate feedback for assessing handwashing effectiveness.