What is the minimum scrubbing time recommended for a surgical hand wash?

Correct option is D

Ans. (d)
Sol. The minimum scrubbing time for a surgical hand wash is 5 minutes. This time ensures thorough removal of transient microorganisms and a significant reduction of resident flora to maintain aseptic conditions in the operating environment. The process involves systematic scrubbing of hands, forearms, and under fingernails.
Explanation of each option:
(a) 2 minutes – Too short for a complete surgical scrub and doesn't meet most infection control standards.
(b) 3 minutes – Still below the minimum recommended time for surgical asepsis.
(c) 4 minutes – Closer but not sufficient for standard surgical practice.
(d) 5 minutes – Correct answer. Widely accepted as the minimum standard for effective surgical hand antisepsis.