Comparison of the Antiseptic Effects of Betadine and Sterillium on Microbial Load of Surgical Hands

Abstract

Background:The hands of surgeons and scrub nurses carry microorganisms identified as sources of microbial contamination. Surgical hand antisepsis is a cornerstone of the overall aseptic technique in surgery to eliminate transient microorganisms and reduce resident skin flora, preoperative hand disinfection is an important part of the strategy for surgical team to prevent surgical site infection. Aim: Compare the antiseptic effects of Betadine and Sterillium on microbial load of surgical hands. Method: One group, two periods, posttest experimental study designed was carried on a convenient sample of 54 surgeons and 44 scrub nurses. Results: The mean of microbial load were. 76.46 (178.97), and 31.58 (74.57) after hands washing with soap and water before hands scrubbing or rubbing by using Betadine, and Sterillium respectively, with statistically significant differences, P=.024. The mean of microbial load were. 4.06 (13.57), and 0.15 (1.08) after hands scrubbing or rubbing by using Betadine, and Sterillium respectively, with statistically significant differences, P=.005. Finally, the mean of microbial load were. 21.75 (104.65), and zero after doffing gloves by scrubbing with Betadine, and rubbing with Sterillium respectively, with statistically significant differences, P=.042. Conclusion: superiority of hands rubbing with Sterilium over hands scrubbing with Betadine in the terms of; total positive growth, or no growth of isolated bacteria. Recommendation: Assure continuous supply operating theater with Sterillium.