What is the correct hygiene sequence when handling soft contact lenses?

• A. Wash hands with soap and water, dry with lint-free towel, inspect lens, avoid touching eyes with dirty hands, then proceed with lens care per material.
• B. Dry hands, inspect lens, wash with soap, touch eyes with dirty hands, then wear lens.
• C. Inspect lens before washing hands, then handle; wash with soap and water after touching eyes.
• D. Wash hands, rinse with tap water, dry with towel, insert lens.

Answer: (A)

Starting with clean hands is essential to protect the eye from irritation and infection. Wash hands with soap and water, then dry them with a clean lint-free towel to remove oils and any particles. Drying is important because fibers or moisture from a towel can transfer onto the lens or into the eye. Next, inspect the lens for any damage, deposits, or tears so you don’t insert a compromised lens that could irritate or injure the eye. After confirming the lens looks clean and intact, avoid touching or placing the lens on or into your eye with dirty hands. Finally, follow the lens material’s care instructions, which may include rubbing and rinsing, using the approved cleaning/disinfection solution, and storing as directed. Rinsing with tap water or handling the eye with dirty hands would introduce contaminants and increase the risk of infection, which is why those sequences are not appropriate.