Why is using soap important in hand hygiene?

Using soap is important in hand hygiene primarily because it is more effective than water alone in removing germs. When soap is added to the washing process, it works by breaking down the oils and dirt on the skin, effectively dislodging pathogens that may be present. These germs can include bacteria and viruses that can lead to infections. Soap molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) end and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) end. This unique structure allows soap to encapsulate and lift away germs and debris from the skin's surface so that they can be rinsed away with water.

While it is true that soap may have other benefits, such as potentially being less expensive than hand sanitizer or enhancing the smell of handwashing, these aspects do not directly impact the effectiveness of hand hygiene in terms of germ removal. Additionally, while some soaps may offer moisturizing properties to prevent hands from drying out, the primary role of soap in hand hygiene is to ensure that pathogens are effectively removed, which is crucial in infection control practices.