Which of the following is NOT a recommended procedure for drying recently washed hands?

Using a paper towel to turn on water is not a recommended procedure for drying hands because it introduces the possibility of cross-contamination. While it can be a useful way to avoid touching the faucet directly to keep hands clean after washing, it does not directly relate to the process of drying hands after washing. The focus of drying hands is to remove moisture to help prevent the growth of bacteria.

The other choices emphasize proper hand hygiene practices. Drying hands and arms with a clean paper towel is essential as it effectively removes any remaining water, which can harbor germs. Turning off the water with a paper towel helps to minimize contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, and discarding the towel without touching the waste container ensures that hands remain clean after the drying process. These practices work together to uphold the highest standards of hygiene, making them recommended procedures in this context.