3M Releases Advanced Surgical Skin Prep Solution Aiding in Patient Infection Prevention

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on any given day, 1 in 25 hospital patients experience healthcare-associated infections, like SSIs. An SSI is a surgical site infection often caused by infectious bacteria around the surgical incision area. Our own skin is a major source of bacteria which is why OR clinicians aim to reduce bacteria on the skin before surgery with antimicrobial agents. In an effort to help clinicians in the fight against SSIs, 3M is introducing 3M SoluPrep Film-Forming Sterile Surgical Solution – a 2 percent chlorhexidine gluconate and 70 percent isopropyl alcohol surgical skin prep that uses 3M technology to help clinicians in the fight against SSIs. “As a surgeon, I know there is always a risk to the patient of acquiring a surgical site infection,” said Dr Daniel Segina, orthopedic trauma surgeon with Health First, Holmes Regional Medical Center. “New technologies are welcomed as an opportunity for us to better care for our patients and reduce potential complications associated with surgery.”

The new product leverages 3M’s expertise in polymer and adhesive technology in the form of a proprietary 3M Prep Protection Film. When the copolymer film dries, it forms a water-insoluable film on the skin, helping the proven bacteria-killing agent chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) stay on a patient’s skin and able to withstand the rigors of simulated surgical conditions – including repetitive wiping. “At 3M, we apply 3M Science to deliver safe and effective solutions that help improve patients’ lives and outcomes,” said Dr Todd Fruchterman, vice president and general manager, 3M Medical Solutions Division. “While we are always looking for ways to arm our clinicians with the most advanced infection prevention solutions possible, we also encourage patients to help take control of their own outcomes by asking their care team about surgical preps and learning how they can help protect them.” In studies comparing 3M SoluPrep Film-Forming Sterile Surgical Solution to the current market-leading CHG prep, the 3M solution was shown to have:

• More CHG remaining on the skin after subjection to simulated surgical conditions.
• Easy visibility on all skin tones to help track coverage and make sure no spots are missed.
• High viscosity to minimize running, which can lead to dripping and pooling—a known operating room fire and patient chemical burn risk. – Medical Buyer Bureau