Which is the term for the 'degerning' of the hands?

The term for 'degerming' of the hands is best described as scrubbing. Degerming refers to the process of reducing the number of microbes on the skin's surface, particularly before surgical procedures or in clinical settings. Scrubbing involves using a brush or cloth along with soap or antiseptic to physically remove dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants from the hands. This action is crucial in maintaining proper hygiene and preventing infections, especially in healthcare environments.

While washing may also involve cleaning the hands with soap and water, it doesn’t necessarily convey the thoroughness and attention to detail implied by scrubbing. Sanitizing refers to reducing the number of germs on surfaces to a safe level, usually through chemical agents, rather than the physical removal involved in scrubbing. Sterilizing goes further to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, which is not what is performed on hands in a typical healthcare setting. Thus, scrubbing is the most precise term for the process of degerming hands.