What is the primary purpose of using alcohol-based hand rubs?

The primary purpose of using alcohol-based hand rubs is to disinfect hands when soap and water are not available. These hand sanitizers are effective in killing a wide range of bacteria and viruses and are particularly useful in healthcare settings or situations where traditional handwashing is not feasible.

Alcohol-based hand rubs contain a high percentage of alcohol, typically between 60% to 95%, which is effective at destroying pathogens on the skin. This makes them a vital tool for reducing the risk of infections, especially when hands are not visibly soiled, as they can quickly reduce microbial load without the need for water.

While some might consider using hand rubs for removing dirt or moisturizing the skin, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not designed for those purposes. They do not effectively remove physical dirt or debris, and their alcohol content may actually dry the skin rather than provide moisture. Thus, the primary intent behind their use is to ensure proper hand hygiene through disinfection when soap and water are unavailable.