The examination of the total germ count from hand swabs is not a suitable parameter for assessing the hygiene status, even after cleaning and disinfection, because the natural skin flora is not removed by hygienic hand disinfection. Enterobacteria are more suitable but can still not be completely reduced, depending on individual skin structure. Depending on the operation, it may be advisable to investigate specific parameters such as E. coli or Staphylococcus aureus. It should be considered that hands can also be contaminated by contact with raw animal or plant foods.