What should a nurse do during surgical hand hygiene to ensure effective cleaning?

Using a nail pick to clean the fingernails under running water is essential during surgical hand hygiene because the nails can harbor bacteria and dirt that are not easily removed by simply washing hands. Studies indicate that microorganisms can reside beneath the nails, and thorough cleaning, including the use of a nail pick, helps ensure that all areas are properly sanitized before a surgical procedure. This practice minimizes the risk of postoperative infections by ensuring that the hands are as free from contaminants as possible.

Additionally, surgical hand hygiene emphasizes the importance of thoroughness in areas that may be overlooked, such as the fingernails. This attention to detail is critical in a healthcare environment where sterility is paramount. While the other options have their importance in hand hygiene practices, they do not align with the specific focus on thorough cleaning required in surgical settings.