switch from Chlorhexidine gluconate to alcohol swabs
What is the consensus on using alcohol swabs vs chloraprep swabs for AV fistulas? Is there any evidence that refutes the use of alcohol for this purpose? Thank you for your assistance.
I don't think the CDC or INS makes a distinction about AVFs when it comes to skin antisepsis, but you should check those documents. A lit search would be necessary to find any studies about this. CHG solutions do contain alcohol and alcohol is a very good antiseptic agent. However one or two simple wipes is not sufficient and that is what I commonly see. Alcohol may be sufficient with an adequate friction scrub. Lynn
I don't think the CDC or INS makes a distinction about AVFs when it comes to skin antisepsis, but you should check those documents. A lit search would be necessary to find any studies about this. CHG solutions do contain alcohol and alcohol is a very good antiseptic agent. However one or two simple wipes is not sufficient and that is what I commonly see. Alcohol may be sufficient with an adequate friction scrub. Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
126 Main Street, PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861