Skin antisepsis: using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol.
The insertion of peripheral and central venous access devices carries a high risk of healthcare-associated infection. One of the main risks of this procedure is the introduction of microorganisms from the patient's own skin. To combat this, and to reduce the rates of healthcare-associated infection, effective skin antisepsis using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) in 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) has been recommended by the epic2: National Evidence-Based Guidelines for Preventing Healthcare-Associated Infections in NHS Hospitals in England (Pratt et al, 2007). This article discribes the introduction of 2% CHG in 70% IPA into the United Kingdom healthcare market and gives a discussion of the recommendations of epic2 (Pratt et al, 2007). The article identifies the correct use of 2%CHG 70% IPA solution, by detailing the variety of products and applications now available. It also clarifies their correct application and use to enable Trusts to provide a high standard of infection control and reduce healthcare-associated infection. It highlights the potential incorrect use of the available products due to cost pressures within the healthcare setting.
Inwood
Sheila
S
Vascular Access Service, North Block, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, London Road, Reading, Berkshire.
D019840:2-Propanol / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D002710:Chlorhexidine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004304:Dosage Forms; D004338:Drug Combinations; D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods; D012867:Skin / Q000382:microbiology*; D006113:United Kingdom
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D004304:Dosage Forms; D004338:Drug Combinations; C010882:chlorhexidine gluconate; D019840:2-Propanol; D002710:Chlorhexidine