Authors (including presenting author) :
Ng CW, Li JKY
Affiliation :
Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Introduction :
Majority of women would experience certain degree of perineal lacerations during vaginal births, either from episiotomies or natural tears. One of the complications of perineal laceration is wound infection. A prospective observational study performed by the midwifery research workgroup of eight local hospitals reveals that the units using normal saline in perineal cleansing has lowest infection rate. Our unit was using diluted antiseptics in perineal cleansing and the rate of wound infection was 4.9%, which is significantly higher than other hospitals.
Objectives :
According to the study carried out by the midwifery research workgroup of eight local hospitals, the units using normal saline in perineal cleansing has lowest rate of wound infection. Other studies and international guidelines suggested that there is no significant difference between using antiseptics and saline. Therefore, the objective of the project is to change the practice of using diluted antiseptics in perineal cleansing. We proposed that using normal saline in perineal cleansing does not increase wound infection rate. The advantages of using normal saline include lower cost and less irritation.
Methodology :
The purpose of the project was explained to all staff in the unit. Solution for perineal cleansing before delivery and suture was changed from diluted chlorhexidine (a mixture of sterile water and 0.015% chlorhexidine in a ratio of 1:1) to normal saline.
Result & Outcome :
All cases with perineal wound were traced by phone follow up during the project period. The rate of wound infection was identified and compared with that before change of cleansing solution. The rate of wound infection decreased from 4.9% to 2%.
