Aseptic vs Clean technique Sharp debridement and wound care

Good evening,
Where would I be able to locate literature evidence on whether or not utilizing sterile technique/sterile gloves for sharp debridement and wound dressings decreases incidence of wound infections?

Nov 25, 2024 by Robin McGlade ,

1 replies

Elaine Horibe Song
MD, PhD, MBA

Hi Robin

Thank you for your questions! Other colleagues might have additional information, but below please find some literature:

For sharp wound debridement [1,2]

Sterile technique is considered most appropriate.
Sharp wound debridement utilizing sterile instruments, supplies, and dressings is a universal, expected standard.

For dressing changes : Does the Use of Clean or Sterile Dressing Technique Affect the Incidence of Wound Infection?

Studies reported no significant difference in the rate of wound infection when using either clean or sterile technique with dressing application.[3] Evidence indicates that the use of clean technique for acute wound care is a clinically effective intervention that does not affect the incidence of infection compared to sterile technique. [3]
The IWII Wound Infection in Clinical Practice Guidelines suggest that wound service providers follow standards of aseptic technique that reflect local conditions (e.g. resources, standard of care, patient population and environmental risks). Wound clinicians should be guided by their local policies and procedures. [4]

Clean skin lacerations undergoing sutures

The use of clean rather than sterile gloves does not increase the risk of wound infection and is an acceptable practice for uncomplicated skin lacerations undergoing suturing in the ambulatory setting. [5]

References:

Hope this helps!

Nov 26, 2024

* Information provided without clinical evaluation and is not intended as a replacement for in-person consultation with a medical professional. The information provided through Curbside Consult is not a substitute for proper training, experience, and exercising of professional judgment. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, neither the authors nor the Wound Reference, Inc. give any guarantee as to the accuracy of the information contained in them nor accept any liability, with respect to loss, damage, injury or expense arising from any such errors or omissions in the contents of the work.

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