Antiseptics: Uses, Types, and Safety — DermNet
WEBOct 20, 2022 · An antiseptic is a chemical agent that slows or stops the growth of microorganisms on external surfaces of the body and helps to prevent infection. Antiseptics should be distinguished from antibiotics, which destroy microorganisms inside the body; and from disinfectants, which destroy microorganisms found on inanimate (non-living) objects.
Hand care for healthcare workers - DermNet
WEBHand care is necessary because healthcare workers are prone to hand dermatitis mostly due to contact with irritants associated with frequent hand washing or cleaning using soap and water, aggressive disinfectants, and detergents. The use of surgical gloves may also cause dermatitis in some individuals. Hand dermatitis is being seen increasingly ...
Benzalkonium chloride contact dermatitis
WEBJul 12, 2019 · The affected skin may be red, itchy, dry, or scaly, and may also blister or peel. Symptoms may start to occur hours or days after contact with benzalkonium chloride. Some people may develop periorbital or eye dermatitis or conjunctivitis (red and itchy eyes) after the use of ophthalmic solutions containing benzalkonium chloride [1].
Premature infant skin and care - DermNet
WEBFeb 16, 2019 · Regular repositioning helps to minimise skin breakdown. Premature skin develops to resemble the skin of a full-term infant by 2 to 4 weeks of age, although this may take longer in ultra-low weight neonates. Despite this apparent improvement, water loss through the skin remains high and full maturation may take 9 weeks or longer.
Wound cleansers - DermNet
WEBApr 27, 2018 · Wound cleansers are rinsing solutions used to remove foreign materials on a wound surface and its surrounding skin. Wound cleansers are a cost-effective means to promote wound healing and reduce the infection rate. However, routine cleansing may also remove products and tissues that are essential for wound healing, such as regenerating ...
Laboratory tests for bacterial infections - DermNet
WEBC-reactive protein (CRP) — this is elevated above 50 in serious bacterial infections. Procalcitonin — a marker of generalised sepsis due to bacterial infection. Serology — tests 10 to 14 days apart to determine immune response to a particular organism. Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test (and others) — if syphilis is suspected.