What technique is often employed to reduce the presence of pathogens on the hands?

The technique often employed to reduce the presence of pathogens on the hands is scrubbing. This method involves using friction and a cleansing agent, typically soap, to physically remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin's surface. Scrubbing is particularly effective because it disrupts and dislodges pathogens, making them easier to rinse away with water.

While washing is related and can refer to the general action of cleaning the hands, it does not always emphasize the importance of the technique used, which involves vigorous scrubbing. Rubbing and soaking are less effective methods for the purpose of pathogen reduction, as rubbing may not provide enough friction to dislodge pathogens adequately, and soaking does not involve a thorough cleaning process that effectively removes contaminants. Therefore, scrubbing is recognized as the optimal technique to ensure hands are not only cleaned but also sanitized effectively.