Effects of vapocoolant spray on skin sterility prior to intravenous cannulation

摘要: Summary Background Alkane vapocoolant sprays evaporate rapidly, lower skin temperature and result in a temporary interruption pain sensation. They reduce the of intravenous cannulation. However, concern exists that they may recontaminate sterile cannulation site. Aim To determine effects spray on sterility prior to Methods Fifty patients from emergency department large tertiary metropolitan hospital were enrolled this study. Bacterial swabs taken dorsum both hands each patient. From one hand, swab was following standard chlorhexidine disinfection, second application spray. other unprepared (non-disinfected) skin, application. Skin sent for microbiological culture quantitative comparison. Findings The administration after disinfection did not increase bacterial colony count significantly: median 0.0 [interquartile range (IQR) 0.0] vs (IQR 0.0) ( P  = 0.71). decreased 33.5 68) 3.0 11) Conclusion does should pose no increased risk infection when used as an anaesthetic agent disinfection. While it have inherent bactericidal activity, is sufficient be sole disinfectant.