(Adopted from LRMC Policy)
Policy: The chlorhexidine antiseptic body cleaning wash cloths will be used on all intensive care unit patients unless a patient declines or has any known sensitivities to ingredients.
Purpose: To reduce the risk of hospital associated infection by decreasing bacterial colonization that can cause skin infection.
Applicability: The antiseptic body cleaning wash cloths policy is applicable to all healthcare workers assigned to provide bedside bathing to patients in the medical facility.
Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the nursing managers to ensure that this policy is implemented correctly and consistently.
Exclusion: Avoid facial area, open wounds, and areas of 2nd or 3rd degree burned skin.
PROCEDURE
Table 1. Wash cloth sequence
5. What To Do
Do use chlorhexidine (CHG) baths in place of daily bathing with soap and water.
Do massage firmly into skin to bind skin proteins and prevent bacteria for 24 hours.
Only use CHG-compatible lotions.
Use over superficial wounds, including stages 1 and 2 decubitus ulcers.
6. What NOT To Do
Do NOT use above jaw line.
Do NOT rinse or wipe off CHG. Let air dry.
Do NOT flush CHG cloths (discard in trash, not toilet or commode)
Do NOT include patients who are allergic to CHG.