The Role of Antiseptics and Disinfectants in the Control of Nosocomial Infections

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Abstract
More than 600,000 cases per year of nosocomial infection in Italy reflect, in part, the scant attention given to the vehicles of infection, conditions which favour cross-contamination and not least to the inappropriate use of antiseptics and disinfectants in our hospitals. Disinfection procedures are intended to remove or neutralise sources of potentially pathogenic organisms or to prevent their transmission by blocking the routes of transmission. Data to support many disinfection policies, particularly those of routine disinfection of inanimate surfaces, i.e. floors and walls, appear unable to show significant benefit to the patient. With the exception of particular areas, a correlation between reduction in counts of airborne bacteria and microbial colonisation or clinical infection has failed to be demonstrated. However, certain antiseptic practices e.g. correct hand washing procedures, surgical skin preparation and instrument sterilisation are of invaluable use in the control of nosocomial infection. It is therefore of critical importance in this period of cost cutting and financial restraint within the hospital services that we adopt those infection control measures which are of greatest cost effectiveness. A recent critical evaluation of the use of antiseptics in several Italian hospitals, illustrates the principal characteristics of antiseptics and their fundamental role in the control of hospital infection. This study also highlights common misuses of antiseptics and their cost/benefit ratio.

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