Infection Control by Clinical Pharmacist (1): Investigation into the Actual Conditions of Hygienic Handwashing

Abstract

We reviewed the handwashing procedures and disinfectants used to prevent nosocomial infections. Povidone iodine, chlorhexidine gluconate and benzalkonium chloride-ethanol are routinely used for hygienic handwashing in Tokai University Hospital. The cost of the disinfectants has increased 2.2 times during the last 5 years.
According to a survey of nurses in the Plastic Surgery Department, they used these disinfectants to wash their hands before changing patients' dressings. In other instances, the nurses generally used soap. Accordingly, the hands of 80% of these nurses have become roughened from frequent washing.
In addition, our investigation of the bacteria remaining on the hands of the nurses after washing revealed that a large number of skin bacteria (103) were present even after thorough washing with disinfectants.