Disinfection of Skin and Mucous Membranes

Abstract

The skin has rich, permanent and temporary (transient) normal flora of largely harmless bacteria. Mucous membranes in upper airways and gastrointestinal tracts have an even richer and more variable normal flora. A small stick through the skin or mucous membranes is usually harmless and is healed quickly if the wound does not go deeper. In sterile tissue cavities, almost any harmless microbe can multiply and create infection. If a foreign body is placed through poorly disinfected skin or mucous membranes, bacteria may rapidly multiply and become the starting point for a more serious infection. Especially vulnerable are people who have prosthetic or other foreign matters in the body. Skin and mucous membrane disinfection may prevent invasion of microbes and/or contamination of specimens and samples taken. Some disinfectants have better and longer-lasting effect than others. The following chapter is focused on practical measures to disinfect the skin and mucous membranes in healthcare institutions.