Testing of lauricidin vs. isopropyl alcohol for antisepsis of cutaneous hand microbes to prevent infection.
Abraham ERL, Verallo-Rowell VM, Baello BQ.
PUBLICATION: Philippines Journal of Microbial and Infection Diseases 2000 July – Sept.; 3: 128-135
ABSTRACT
The hands have been identified as a major factor in the transfer of bacteria and the spread of disease.
Universal precautions require that health care personnel wash their hands before and after patient contact. Hand washing is considered as the most important single procedure for preventing nosocomial infections. In the Philippines, there is poor compliance with hand washing protocols because water may not be available at all times coupled with lack of motivation or knowledge about its importance. This study evaluated immediate and persistent antimicrobial effectiveness of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 1.5% lauricidin, a coconut oil metabolite using a U.S Food and Drug Administration approved effectiveness protocol. Results indicate that both antiseptics were equally effective after a single application and after repeated use. Lauricidin is an emollient and is non-irritating while alcohol dries and is an irritant favoring lauricidin as a rinse-free hand anti