ZeeNews.com has reported on Jan. 27, 2013, Antiseptic baths cut risk of bloodstream infections in kids. Scientists claim that daily baths with an ordinary antibacterial cleanser can reduce the risk of dangerous bloodstream infections in critically ill children. Researchers have found that children who were bathed with the antiseptic solution had a 36 percent lower risk of bloodstream infections, in comparison with those given soap- and-water baths.
Bedside bathing has traditionally been viewed as nothing more than a comfort measure, the researchers have said. However, the findings from this study show that the simple, often overlooked procedure of antiseptic baths can also be a powerful infection-prevention tool.
Lead investigator Aaron Milstone has said "Daily bedside baths with an antiseptic solution may be an easy, quick and relatively cheap way to cut the risk of a potentially life- threatening infection in these vulnerable children." Bloodstream infections, which are a common occurrence among critically ill patients, can lead to serious complications, which include organ damage and even death.
Science Daily has also reported on this research, Daily Antiseptic Baths Slash Risk of Bloodstream Infections in Critically Ill Children. This study is the first of its kind in children and one of the largest infection-prevention trials to date. Children bathed with the antiseptic solution had a significanlty lower risk of bloodstream infections, compared with those given soap-and-water baths. The researchers have said daily antiseptic baths appeared to reduce bloodstream infections of any origin. The antiseptic solution used for this study, chlorhexidine gluconate, is produced by multiple manufacturers and is available over the counter.
