Patient skin integrity: A critical factor in infection prevention

Maintaining skin integrity is a fundamental aspect of patient care, especially when it comes to preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Nurses understand that compromised skin can become a gateway for pathogens. That’s why the choice of preoperative skin antiseptics and cleansing cloths matters. Not all chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) products are created equal, and some formulations contain ingredients that may impact skin health and patient outcomes.

Not all CHG cloths are the same: Understanding the differences

CHG-based cleansing cloths have become a standard in preoperative skin preparation and infection prevention protocols. However, it’s crucial to recognize that formulations can vary significantly. When considering CHG-impregnated cloths as part of a protocol to address skin irritation and injury, special attention should be given to the formulation and ingredients contained in the products, keeping in mind their potential for patient skin irritation.

Benzalkonium chloride: What nurses need to know

Benzalkonium chloride (BZK) is a commonly used antimicrobial agent found in some antiseptic products, including certain CHG cloths. While BZK has disinfectant properties, research has raised questions about its safety and efficacy in patient care.¹

Key considerations regarding BZK

• BZK is a significant skin irritant²
• Unlike CHG, which offers broad-spectrum, long-lasting antimicrobial activity, BZK can increase resistance to antibiotics^1,3

Learn more about BZK and its impact on patient care

Understanding the implications of BZK in clinical settings is essential for making informed decisions about patient safety.

Learn more

At Stryker, we make products that clinicians use on patients across the continuum of care. Our Sage 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Cloths are clinically proven to address bacteria on the skin prior to surgery and do not contain benzalkonium chloride (BZK or BAC).⁴ Learn more about our innovative solutions today!