CHG wipes are specialized, disposable cloths that contain an antiseptic solution used primarily in medical settings to cleanse the skin. They are a convenient way to apply an infection-fighting agent across the body without requiring a full shower or bath. This method is often implemented when reducing the number of microorganisms on the skin is necessary for patient safety.
Understanding the Active Ingredient
The acronym CHG stands for Chlorhexidine Gluconate, which is a powerful, broad-spectrum antiseptic agent. This chemical works by having a positive charge that allows it to bind strongly to the negatively charged cell walls of bacteria and fungi. This binding action destabilizes the microorganism’s outer membrane, causing the cellular contents to leak out and resulting in the microbe’s death. Chlorhexidine Gluconate exhibits “substantivity,” meaning it continues to kill germs on the skin for up to 24 hours even after it has dried. This residual activity provides ongoing protection against bacterial growth.
Primary Purpose in Infection Control
CHG wipes are a significant tool in modern healthcare for preventing infections acquired during a hospital stay. Daily use of these wipes is a common strategy to lower the risk of dangerous healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). These include central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), which can occur when bacteria on the skin enter the bloodstream through an intravenous catheter. The wipes are also widely used in pre-operative skin preparation to reduce the bacterial count on a patient’s body before a surgical procedure. By significantly decreasing the number of germs on the skin, the risk of developing a surgical site infection (SSI) is reduced.
Essential Steps for Proper Application
Use of CHG wipes requires careful attention to ensure maximum antiseptic benefit. Before beginning the application, patients are often advised to wash their hair, face, and body with regular soap and water, and then rinse thoroughly. It is important to wait at least 15 minutes after washing to ensure the skin is completely cool and dry before using the CHG wipes. The wipes should be applied to the skin in a circular or back-and-forth motion, ensuring the skin is completely wetted with the solution.
Using multiple wipes is generally required to cover the entire body below the neck, with a fresh cloth used for each major section of the body to prevent cross-contamination. After the application is complete, the skin must not be rinsed or wiped dry with a towel. The antiseptic needs to remain on the skin to bind and provide its lasting protective effect. Allowing the skin to air dry completely, which usually takes between one and three minutes, is required for the CHG to achieve its full germ-killing potential.
Important Safety Precautions
While CHG is safe and highly effective for use on the body, there are specific areas where it should never be applied. The wipes must be kept away from the head, face, eyes, ears, and mouth, as the solution can be irritating or cause harm to these sensitive mucous membranes. Similarly, the wipes should be avoided on the genital area and anus unless a healthcare provider specifically instructs otherwise. The chemical should also not be used on open wounds, broken skin, or areas with a severe rash or burn, as this can increase irritation and absorption. If a patient experiences a reaction like itching, burning, or a rash, they should immediately stop using the wipes and rinse the affected area with water. A known allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate is a contraindication for use.