Hand care

[PC0229]

During the time period my father was diagnosed with sqamous cell carcinoma until his consequent death, I developed super hygiene skills to try to prevent compromising his weakened immune system and, in the latter hospice days, trying to prevent contamination. From the frequent hand cleaning and sanitizing I developed eczema on my palms that I still struggle with two years later. I will be beginning clinicals in the Spring and was wondering what hand lotions or creams or skin care methods you would recommend to stave off the excessive dryness associated with frequent hand cleaning?

Thank you in advance!

[Okami_CCRN, BSN, RN]

I used to have extremely red and dry hands after working 2-3 nights in a row, one of the nurses I work with told me to try Gold Bond Softening lotion w/ shea butter. I found it really helps my hands when I'm home and getting ready for bed. At work however I use Helping Hands by Lush (100% organic stuff), it's small enough that I can drop it in my bookbag and not worry about space, however it is a little on the pricey side.

[PC0229]

*sqaumous cell carcinoma

And thank you Okami! I'll definitely give both a try!

[Texas86RN]

Use hand sanitizer and soap with moisturizers-aloe, follow with a healing lotion everytime , make sure the lotion is alcohol free

[idialyze, BSN, RN]

GermX has a hand gel with aloe, I've used it for years. Gold Bond Ultimate Hand sanitizer is a lotion, it rocks as well!

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

I would check with a dermatologist to be sure that this is simple dry hands....I use aquaphor at night to soother my hands...at work I Used something called camo-care

[Balto]

I have struggled with eczema and sensitive skin throughout my life. When I was younger and it was extremely bad, I would get Aveeno oatmeal baths. I recommend Aveeno hand lotion so your hands do not dry out during clinicals. They have a specific line called eczema therapy.

You could get the 5-oz and keep it in your bag: AVEENO® Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream

[laKrugRN]

I always get eczema on my hands in the winter. It is annoying and embarrassing because people usually think it's something worse.

I use Eucerin hand cream and Gold Bond lotion during the day. At night I put vaseline on my hands and wear socks over them. Yes, I look like a dork but I have nice soft hands and it helps my eczema clear up. Good luck!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

facilities may prefer you use what is approved by Infection Control while on duty. I think a dermatologist would advise you best