Five key characteristics to consider when selecting a good topical antiseptic

There are many topical antiseptics agents from which to choose. The following table from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) details the comparison of several topical antiseptics with regards to the five key characteristics.

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Fast action - the ability of a product to act quickly and be effective with the first application.

Persistence - the ability of a product to exhibit a prolonged or extended activity, which prevents or inhibits the growth of organisms that remain on the skin after application. It also refers to the ability to prevent the reestablishment of bacteria that are contracted in the environment.

Breadth of spectrum - the ability of a topical antiseptic agent to demonstrate good activity against a wide range of microorganisms.

Efficacy - the ability of a product to decrease microorganism counts. Efficacy is typically expressed in terms of log reductions.

Safety - Topical antiseptics are tested for their inherent safety attributes per regulations established in ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 10993. These regulations ensure the product is nonirritating and nontoxic.

10 questions to ask when choosing a topical antiseptic:

1.) Does the product meet the FDA’s
requirements?

2.) What are the key needs for your hospital?

3.) Is the product effective against the
organisms seen in the facility?

4.) Characteristics of the antimicrobial
ingredients: What is the active ingredient
and how long does it continue to work?

5.) What is the effectiveness of the ingredients to remove bacteria from hands?

6.) What are the requirements of the
end user?

7.) How much of the product must be used for each handwashing episode?

8.) What are the effects of the product on
hands? (i.e. is it drying, does it leave the hands more moist? etc.)

9.) How easy is the product to use?

10.) The time required for the product to have contact with the area to provide usefulness: How long hands must be washed when using it?