A review of suspected intraoperative antiseptic burns: A quality improvement review

Abstract

The use of antiseptics in theatre is mainstay treatment in reducing cutaneous bioburden and, in turn, preventing surgical site infection and sepsis. The incidence of antiseptic chemical burns is a rare but recognised potential adverse intra-operative event. This quality improvement activity required a review of all operating theatre incidents logged for 2015 through the hospital’s incident database. A chart review was then conducted of all suspected intra-operative burns injuries. A total of seven patients were highlighted with suspected antiseptic burns. Locally, it was identified that ongoing education and support programs are required to assist in educating the changing workforce, thus keeping staff up to date with best practice, local policy and procedure and to keep our patients safe and free from harm.