In early 2023, two weaker-concentration chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) antiseptic products Tisept (0.015% CHG+0.15% cetrimide) and Unisept (0.05% CHG) were discontinued, leaving a dilemma regarding alternatives for very preterm babies to minimise risk of chemical injury in the first postnatal days. We therefore surveyed current antiseptic choices in the wake of their withdrawal.

During October–December 2023, we telephoned all 54 UK neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). We asked a senior nurse/advanced neonatal nurse practitioner/doctor about type and concentration of skin antiseptic used to clean the skin prior to peripheral venous cannulation, umbilical catheterisation and percutaneous central venous catheter (PCVC) insertion. We also asked whether local practices varied according to any gestational/postnatal age cut-offs.

We obtained responses from 54 of 54 (100%) units. Table 1 summarises the antiseptic/cleansing agents in preterm and term neonates prior to venous cannulation, PCVC and umbilical catheter insertion. Complete data, anonymised by NICU, are provided in online supplemental file 1.

[fetalneonatal-2024-326858supp001.pdf]

Skin antiseptic/cleaning agent used prior to peripheral …