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Clinical Practice Supports: Nursing Skills and Procedures

Support material for competency maintenance, evidence-informed practice and professional education.

Policies, Guidelines and Patient Education Pamphlets

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Emergency Care Areas

Principles to consider when using 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol

  • Single use preparations preferred
  • Immediate antibacterial action as well as persistent activity on skin that may last up to 7 days under a sterile dressing
  • If gross contamination is visible, wash the area with warm water and soap before starting the procedure
  • Apply using a back-and-forth motion with light friction for 30 seconds in 2 different directions
  • Cleans an area larger than the outer size of the dressing.
  • If the patient has an allergy to chlorhexidine, use 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. This requires a 1-minute friction application and 30 second dry time. This provides no residual antibacterial activity.