Chlorhexidine Bathing to Prevent Hospital-acquired Infections: the CLEANS Study

Effect of Chlorhexidine Bathing on Prevention of Hospital-Acquired Infections in Patients After Surgery in ICU: A Prospective, Single-Center, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) have been shown to increase length of hospital stay and mortality. Infections acquired during a hospital stay have been shown to be preventable. The skin of patients is considered a major reservoir for pathogens associated with hospital-acquired infections, and has been suggested as a potential target for interventions to reduce bacterial burden and subsequent risk of infection. The use of daily Chlorhexidine (CHG) bathing in intensive care patients has been advocated to reduce many of the infections in critically ill patients. However, the effectiveness of CHG bathing to reduce ICU infections has varied considerably among published trials, making the effectiveness of CHG bathing in ICU patients uncertain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adults (≥ 18-years old)
• anticipated SICU stay for 48 hours or more
• APACHE II >15

Exclusion Criteria:

• Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk score more than 9 (highest risk)
• pregnancy
• skin irritation
• chlorhexidine allergy
• SICU stay of more than 48 hours prior to screening