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Has anyone seen any complications related to Chlorhexidine -Alcohol surgical scrub?

Allergic reactions/ Chemical burns? Unaccountable post op skin discoloration (reddish - purplish- non blanching) and swelling?

Steve

 

We have had one lady who has stated she got a 'burn' from the use of c.hex, looks roughly like hemosiderin on the dorsum of the foot where it was sprayed, however there is nothing inter-digitally so unsure whether this is a true burn from the c.hex as it all happened before i joined the trust

 

Not actually witnessed it myself, but I do have a pt who claims to have an allergy to Chlorex. So, I use saline as a skin prep and keep the pink stuff out of reach.

There have been a couple of incidences where mouthwash (in which particular brands contain chlorex) has been identified as the source for anaphylactic reaction;

http://www.whatsonningbo.com/news-2...t-woman-sacha-rumaner-in-dentist-s-chair.html

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7967032

Cheers,
Bel

 

At the hospital I am at that will remain nameless, the surgeon used a bovie after the patient was prepped. I guess it was not completely dry, and the patient caught fire. :sinking:It is my understanding that this happened a few more times.
Needless to say, there are no preps with alcohol that can be used at my hospital and the rest of them in their group.

Regards,
Stanley

 

I have had some dialysis PTs who report allergy or sensitivity to chlorhex.

It is strong stuff. Not worth the risk of repeated exposure especially with the above reports of anaphylaxis as some sensivities do tend to get worse (ie latex).

I like to keep both chlorhex and betadine scrub on hand as some are reporting sensitivity to betadine also.

Sarah

 

I have a skin/mucous membrane sensitivity to Chlorhexidine. I use Sterets as pre and post op.