Disinfectants are used for the so-called antiseptic. This means that they reduce the number of pathogens or put the germs into a state in which they can no longer infect humans and cannot multiply. This distinguishes them from sterilisation agents, in which the microorganisms are completely killed off and not only occur in lower numbers. There are different types of disinfection: skin disinfection, surface disinfection, instrument disinfection and drinking water disinfection to name but a few. For us, however, only skin disinfection is of interest.
Spectrum of action
In the case of disinfectants, the spectrum of action is indicated on the packaging. This indicates against which microorganisms, i.e. pathogens, the product is effective. The following spectra are distinguished: Bactericide: effective against bacteria Virucide: effective against viruses Fungicide: effective against fungi Tuberculocide: effective against the tuberculosis bacterium (Tbc bacterium)
- Bactericide: effective against bacteria
- Virucide: effective against viruses
- Fungicide: effective against fungi
- Tuberculocide: effective against the tuberculosis bacterium (Tbc bacterium)
- Sporicide: effective against spores of bacteria (spores are the long-term survival form of bacteria, so they can survive without water or nutrients)
Requirements for good disinfectants
A good disinfectant should naturally show good results in disinfecting and cleaning the skin. It is also very positive if the required exposure time is relatively short. Thus, one can rather assume that the disinfection has been successful even after a short time.
Especially in case of irritated or wounded skin areas or sensitive skin types the skin compatibility is very important. Therefore, there are also other disinfectants for the hands than for example for wounds. Wound disinfectants contain no alcohol and do not burn when applied. A good product does not leave any residues on the skin and does not disturb with an acrid smell. Another aspect when buying a disinfectant is its environmental compatibility.
Application
The golden rule when using disinfectants is: always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Exposure times can vary and should always be strictly adhered to. During the exposure time, the skin area to be disinfected must be constantly moistened with the liquid.
If it evaporates before, you have to spray or wipe again. The duration of the disinfection often also depends on whether the skin is rich in sebaceous glands or poor in sebaceous glands. If there are many glands in the skin, it is usually more greasy and the disinfectant must work longer to have the desired effect.
The liquids can either be sprayed on or applied with a damp cloth by wiping disinfection. Today, many experts rather recommend wiping, because here the surface is moistened more reliably and completely. In addition, with more aggressive substances the danger of inhalation through the spray mist is avoided.
The wipe or swab should be moved with the disinfectant in one direction only to prevent the pathogens from being spread over the surface. Particularly in wound disinfection, it is very important that the person disinfecting the wound (e.g. the nurse or even the patient himself) disinfects his hands beforehand. If a “puddle” has formed when applying the product (it is often the case with the crook of the arm before blood is taken), the excess disinfectant can be absorbed with a sterile swab after the application time. Using contaminated swabs or touching them with the fingers makes the disinfection ineffective.
