[Evaluation of aseptic measures in the performance of epidural catheterization and perception of its risk of infection. Results of a survey in Languedoc-Roussillon].
OBJECTIVE
To assess the level of aseptic practice in epidural catheterization, to determine the perception of its infectious risk and the knowledge of epidural abscess symptoms.


METHODS
Cross-sectional regionwide retrospective survey.


METHODS
Questionnaire sent after telephone call to 160 anaesthesiologists performing epidural anaesthesia in Languedoc-Roussillon.


RESULTS
Replies were obtained from 96 anaesthesiologists working in 26 centres. Handwashing techniques were various: 53% onefolded with an antiseptic preparation, 38% twofolded and 9% used a simple soap; 41% did never wear a long-sleeved sterile surgical gown and only 53% wored simultaneously a cap; a surgical mask and a sterile gown; 4% of the Tuohy needles were reusable; 21% of the dressings permitted continuous inspection of the site of puncture; 12.5% admitted not to know epidural abcess symptoms and 30% ignored the most adapted radiological diagnostic means.


CONCLUSIONS
Good aseptic practice in epidural catheterization should be clarified by a consensus conference. There is an obvious lack of knowledge concerning features of epidural abscess.
Sleth
J C
JC
Département d'anesthésie-réanimation et urgences, CHG Béziers, France.
D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000592:standards; D000776:Anesthesiology / Q000592:standards*; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D002404:Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000592:standards; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005602:France; D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006801:Humans; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D013242:Sterilization; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local