Applying Unsterile Microporous Tape onto Surgical Wounds: Tape Contamination and Clinical Rationale.

ABSTRACT: Fomites are surfaces that carry contaminants and may cause infection. We wanted to assess the bacterial load on rolls of nonsterile microporous tape in a hospital setting and explore the scientific rationale behind the existing practice of applying unsterile adhesives onto a surgical wound.

Methods

We analyzed the aerobic bacterial contamination in rolls of microporous tape collected from surgical theaters, outpatient clinics, and storage rooms at St. Olav's University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway between 2018 and 2020. We also reviewed the literature for relevant publications.

Results

A total of 58 rolls were collected; 55 were included for final analysis. Exposed tape surfaces were significantly more contaminated than unexposed surfaces. Tape rolls from outpatient clinics we

SUBMITTER: Ausen K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8205218 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature