The optimal disinfection method for needleless connectors (NCs) is unclear. We used an experimental model of microbial NC contamination to test different scrub times (swipe, 5, 15, 30 seconds) of chlorhexidine-alcohol versus alcohol and for residual disinfectant activity. Swipe with alcohol did not adequately disinfect NCs, particularly when contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. With ≥5-second scrub, chlorhexidine-alcohol and alcohol performed similarly, but chlorhexidine-alcohol showed residual disinfectant activity for up to 24 hours.
Keywords: Central line-associated bloodstream infection; Line maintenance bundle.
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