When is hand washing indicated in neonatal care?

Attention should be focused on the 5 key moments advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other situations associated with care of newborns*.
1. Before contact with the patient.
2. After contact with the patient.
3. Before invasive procedures.
4. After contact with secretions and body fluids.
5. Whenever preparing materials or equipment that are or have been in contact with patients and after contact with areas close to the patient.
* Whenever entering or leaving the hospital unit or isolation area.
* Before the preparation of materials and equipment.
* Before the preparation and administration of medication.