We have implemented the use of Chloraprep in our dialysis unit for cleaning the skin before cannulation. Several of our patients are developing dry skin, itching, redness, and rash like areas. A few of these reactions have been so bad that the skin is almost open. Has anyone experience this? Our Chloraprep rep is telling us it is a chemical reaction between the soap they wash their access with and the Chloraprep. Any thoughts?

I recently gave blood and the nurses used chloraprep to clean my arm. About 12 hours later I noticed a small rash where she had used the chloraprep, and over the course of the next 36 hours the rash spread: the bumps got larger and redder, and they were clearly showed where the swab had been used on my arm. The rash showed up BEFORE I had washed my arm or put ANYTHING on it. It has now been 4 full days since I gave blood, and though the bumps are getting smaller, the rash is still there. I can't imagine what my skin would be like if I had multiple applications of that stuff!

Alcavis International, Inc distributes an antiseptic for all skin applications in dialysis. ExSept Plus is a sodium hypochlorite based solution that is non stainig, non sensitizing and non irritating. It has a 60 second kill rate, two minute applcation time and is compatible with all catheter materials. Please contact them for more infomation on this and other dialysis related products.

In a chronic unit where I worked we used Chloraprep on catheter exit sites as well as fistulae/grafts. We had several patients develop moderate to severe local reactions, requiring steroid creams for weeks.