The use of alcoholic paper wipes for routine hand cleansing: results of trials in two hospitals.

The use of alcoholic paper hand wipes by nursing staff was assessed in two trials. No significant changes in total viable counts from finger imprint samples were observed when wipes were used, but some decrease in samples positive for Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus aureus was recorded. The wipes were found to be pleasant and convenient to use. It is concluded that wipes are an acceptable alternative to soap and water for routine hand cleansing.