Bactericide antiseptic soap Hibiwash®

Overview
Hibiwash® is an antimicrobial aqueous antiseptic wash solution containing 4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate for pre-operative surgical hand disinfection, antiseptic handwashing on wards and pre- and post-operative patient skin antisepsis. The non-sterile, colourless (pale yellow) formulation has been reformulated to remove colour, fragrance and traces of soya oil and includes emollients to reduce the risk of skin irritation on frequent use.

Key messages

• Contains 4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate for broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
• Not absorbed systemically; binds to skin to provide persistent antimicrobial action and is not inactivated by bodily fluids.
• Dermatologically tested and formulated with emollients; suitable for frequent use, surgical handwashing and hygienic handwashing on the ward.
• Regular pre-operative use can reduce the risk of surgical site infection (SSI); evidence shows decreased hospital-associated Staphylococcus aureus infections when combined with nasal antisepsis.

How the product works / Instructions for use

• For external use only.
• Pre-operative surgical hand disinfection (adult): Wet hands and forearms, apply 5 ml of Hibiwash® and wash for 1 minute, cleaning fingernails with a brush or scraper. Rinse, apply a further 5 ml and continue washing for a further 2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Antiseptic handwash on the ward: Wet hands and forearms, apply 5 ml of Hibiwash® and wash for 1 minute. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Pre-operative patient skin antisepsis: Patient should wash whole body in bath or shower on at least two occasions (usually the day before and the day of surgery). The day before surgery wash with 25 ml of Hibiwash® starting at the face and working downwards, paying attention to nose, axillae, umbilicus, groin and perineum. Rinse, repeat with a further 25 ml (including hair), rinse and dry on a clean towel. Repeat the procedure the following day. Bed-bound patients may be washed using standard bed-bath technique. Conventional disinfection of the operation site is performed in theatre.
• Post-operative skin antisepsis: Patient washes whole body excluding the operation wound, usually on the third day after surgery using the same procedure.
• Children and elderly: No special dosage recommendations; normal adult dose applies unless otherwise directed by a physician.

Precautions
Hibiwash® contains chlorhexidine which can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including rare cases of generalized allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. Do not use in individuals with known or suspected allergy to chlorhexidine-containing compounds. Chlorhexidine solutions used for skin antisepsis prior to invasive procedures have been associated with chemical burns in neonates, with increased risk in preterm infants (especially <32 weeks gestation and within the first 2 weeks of life). Remove any soaked materials or drapes before interventions; avoid excessive quantities and prevent pooling of solution in skin folds or under the patient.

Warnings
Ensure no excess product remains prior to application of dressings. Hibiwash® is flammable; do not use with electrocautery or other ignition sources until dry. Isopropyl alcohol may rarely cause skin irritation (erythema, dryness, contact allergy or burning sensation). For external use only. Avoid contact with brain, meninges and middle ear. In patients with head or spinal injuries or perforated eardrum, weigh benefits versus risks for pre-operative preparation. Hibiwash® must not contact the eye; accidental ocular exposure can cause serious corneal injury—rinse promptly and seek ophthalmologic advice. Do not inject or use in body cavities.

Characteristics / Technical specifications

• Active ingredient: 4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate.
• Appearance: Colourless (pale yellow) aqueous solution.
• Sterility: Non-sterile.
• Formulation notes: Contains emollients; reformulated without colour, fragrance and traces of soya oil to reduce irritation potential.
• Flammability: Flammable (contains isopropyl alcohol).
• Intended uses: Pre-operative surgical hand disinfection, antiseptic handwashing on the ward, pre- and post-operative patient skin antisepsis.
• Warnings & precautions: See Precautions and Warnings sections above regarding hypersensitivity, neonates, ocular exposure and pooling/occlusion risks.
• Packaging / Ordering references:
  Ref 2306UK005 — Hibiwash 5L — PIP: 428-5391 — GTIN: 07333350479510
  Ref 2306UK125 — Hibiwash 125 ml — PIP: 428-5367
  Ref 2306UK250 — Hibiwash 250 ml — PIP: 428-5375
  Ref 2306UK500 — Hibiwash 500 ml — PIP: 428-5383