When is it appropriate to use hand sanitizer instead of handwashing with soap and water?

Question

Accepted Answer

When soap and water are unavailable and hands are not visibly soiled. Hand sanitizer can be used when hands are not visibly soiled and soap and water are unavailable. However, if hands are visibly soiled with blood, body fluids, or other contaminants, soap and water must be used as sanitizer is less effective in these situations. Sanitizer should not be the first choice when water is available.