After caring for a patient with known infectious diarrhea, what should be done?

Washing hands with soap and water is essential in this situation because it effectively removes bacteria and viruses, particularly those causing infectious diarrhea. Soap and water are more effective than alcohol-based hand sanitizers in eliminating certain pathogens that may be present, especially if there is visible contamination or the risk of spore-forming organisms such as Clostridium difficile, which can often be associated with infectious diarrhea.

Thorough handwashing involves scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, which helps ensure that any contaminants are fully removed, thereby minimizing the risk of spreading infections to oneself and others. This practice is crucial in healthcare settings to maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff.

While alcohol-based hand rubs can be effective for general hand hygiene, they may not be sufficient under these conditions. Similarly, applying antibacterial gel and merely changing gloves do not address the possible transmission routes that contaminated hands might pose, making handwashing the most effective and recommended practice after caring for a patient with infectious diarrhea.