Efficacy Study Comparing 2% Chlorhexidine in 70% Isopropyl Alcohol Versus 2% Aqueous Chlorhexidine
Status:
Unknown status
Trial end date:
2014-01-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of two different antiseptic solutions
(2%chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol with 2% aqueous chlorhexidine)when used in a standardized
controlled manner in cleansing the skin of infants with birth weight less than 1500 grams
prior to a skin breaking procedure (venepuncture).
The investigators hypothesize that the use of limited amount of 2% aqueous chlorhexidine
solution will be as effective as the same amount of 2% chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol for skin
antisepsis and that limited exposure to 2% aqueous CHG may be associated with less adverse
skin reactions.
Literature from adults has shown that both 2% chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol as well as 2%
aqueous chlorhexidine can provide effective skin antisepsis though alcohol containing
solution had more long lasting effect. It is also well known from many case reports that
alcohol containing products when used to clean abdominal skin for neonatal procedures can
cause severe skin damage in preterm infants. This has lead many neonatal units to adopt
aqueous chlorhexidine as the antiseptic agent of choice without robust evidence to support
its use or standardization of method of application.Both these solutions are widely used in
neonatal intensive care units across the globe including Canada.
By conducting this trial, the investigators want to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2%
aqueous chlorhexidine as an antiseptic agent when used in a controlled manner [limited amount
for short duration].