Avoiding Chlorhexidine Burns in Preterm Infants

Incidents relating to paediatric regional anaesthesia in the first 8000 cases reported to webAIRS

Regional anaesthesia is an essential tool in the armamentarium for paediatric anaesthesia. While largely safe and effective, a range of serious yet preventable adverse events can occur. Incidence and risk factors have been described, but few detailed case series exist relating to paediatric regional anaesthesia. Across Australia and New Zealand, a web-based anaesthesia incident reporting system enables voluntary reporting of detailed anaesthesia-related events in adults and children. From this database, all reports involving paediatric regional anaesthesia (age less than 17 years) were retrieved. Perioperative events and their outcomes were reviewed and analysed. When offered, the reported contributing or alleviating factors relating to the case and its management were noted. This paper provides a summary of these reports alongside an evidence review to support safe practice. Of 8000 reported incidents, 26 related to paediatric regional anaesthesia were identified. There were no deaths or reports of permanent harm. Nine reports of local anaesthetic systemic toxicity were included, seven equipment and technical issues, six errors in which regional anaesthesia made an indirect contribution and four logistical and communication issues. Most incidents involved single-shot techniques or a neuraxial approach. Common themes included variable local anaesthetic dosing, cognitive overload, inadequate preparation and communication breakdown. Neonates, infants and medically complex children were disproportionately represented, highlighting their inherent risk profile. A range of preventable incidents are reported relating to patient, systems and human factors, demonstrating several areas for improvement. Risk stratification, application of existing dosing and administration guidelines, and effective teamwork and communication are encouraged to ensure safe regional anaesthesia in the paediatric population.

Antiseptic solutions for skin preparation during central catheter insertion in neonates

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheters (CVC) are associated with potentially dangerous complications such as thromboses, pericardial effusions, extravasation, and infections in neonates. Indwelling catheters are amongst the main risk factors for nosocomial infections. The use of skin antiseptics during the preparation for central catheter insertion may prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). However, it is still not clear which antiseptic solution is the best to prevent infection with minimal side effects.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically evaluate the safety and efficacy of different antiseptic solutions in preventing CRBSI and other related outcomes in neonates with CVC.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and trial registries up to 22 April 2022. We checked reference lists of included trials and systematic reviews that related to the intervention or population examined in this Cochrane Review.  SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or cluster-RCTs were eligible for inclusion in this review if they were performed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and were comparing any antiseptic solution (single or in combination) against any other type of antiseptic solution or no antiseptic solution or placebo in preparation for central catheter insertion. We excluded cross-over trials and quasi-RCTs.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used the standard methods from Cochrane Neonatal. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included three trials that had two different comparisons: 2% chlorhexidine in 70% isopropyl alcohol (CHG-IPA) versus 10% povidone-iodine (PI) (two trials); and CHG-IPA versus 2% chlorhexidine in aqueous solution (CHG-A) (one trial). A total of 466 neonates from level III NICUs were evaluated. All included trials were at high risk of bias. The certainty of the evidence for the primary and some important secondary outcomes ranged from very low to moderate. There were no included trials that compared antiseptic skin solutions with no antiseptic solution or placebo. CHG-IPA versus 10% PI Compared to PI, CHG-IPA may result in little to no difference in CRBSI (risk ratio (RR) 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 3.25; risk difference (RD) 0.01, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.06; 352 infants, 2 trials, low-certainty evidence) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.68; RD -0.01, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.06; 304 infants, 1 trial, low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of CHG-IPA on CLABSI (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.07 to 15.08; RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.11; 48 infants, 1 trial; very low-certainty evidence) and chemical burns (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.24 to 4.48; RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.03; 352 infants, 2 trials, very low-certainty evidence), compared to PI. Based on a single trial, infants receiving CHG-IPA appeared less likely to develop thyroid dysfunction compared to PI (RR 0.05, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.85; RD -0.06, 95% CI -0.10 to -0.02; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) 17, 95% CI 10 to 50; 304 infants). Neither of the two included trials assessed the outcome of premature central line removal or the proportion of infants or catheters with exit-site infection. CHG-IPA versus CHG-A The evidence suggests CHG-IPA may result in little to no difference in the rate of proven CRBSI when applied on the skin of neonates prior to central line insertion (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.34 to 1.87; RD -0.05, 95% CI -0.22 to 0.13; 106 infants, 1 trial, low-certainty evidence) and CLABSI (RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.34 to 3.84; RD 0.02, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.15; 106 infants, 1 trial, low-certainty evidence), compared to CHG-A. Compared to CHG-A, CHG-IPA probably results in little to no difference in premature catheter removal (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.26 to 3.19; RD -0.01, 95% CI -0.15 to 0.13; 106 infants, 1 trial, moderate-certainty evidence) and chemical burns (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.47 to 2.03; RD -0.01, 95% CI -0.20 to 0.18; 114 infants, 1 trial, moderate-certainty evidence). No trial assessed the outcome of all-cause mortality and the proportion of infants or catheters with exit-site infection.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Based on current evidence, compared to PI, CHG-IPA may result in little to no difference in CRBSI and mortality. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of CHG-IPA on CLABSI and chemical burns. One trial showed a statistically significant increase in thyroid dysfunction with the use of PI compared to CHG-IPA. The evidence suggests CHG-IPA may result in little to no difference in the rate of proven CRBSI and CLABSI when applied on the skin of neonates prior to central line insertion. Compared to CHG-A, CHG-IPA probably results in little to no difference in chemical burns and premature catheter removal. Further trials that compare different antiseptic solutions are required, especially in low- and middle-income countries, before stronger conclusions can be made.

Evidence-based review of chlorhexidine gluconate and iodine in the preoperative skin preparation of young infants

PURPOSE

The preoperative preparation of young infants' skin requires special considerations. Commonly used solutions for preparing the skin preoperatively include chlorhexidine (CHG) and iodine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommendations for preparing skin for surgery and other invasive procedures for adults, but they do not have recommendations for young infants' skin. The purpose of this evidence-based literature review is to synthesize the literature, compare, and inform healthcare providers about the safety and efficacy of CHG and iodine as preoperative preparation solutions for young infants' skin. For this project young infants is defined as infants less than 48 weeks' postmenstrual age and those born prematurely and less than 28 days old.

CONCLUSIONS

We analyze 19 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Three discussion themes emerge: systemic absorption, dermatologic burns, and CHG and iodine efficacy.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

We need more research regarding the safety and efficacy of CHG and iodine solutions for preoperative preparation of young infants' skin. Findings suggest the cautious use of CHG and iodine solutions on patients born at or before 28 weeks' postmenstrual age, especially those less than 28 days postnatal age.

Prevention of Surgical Site Infections in Neonates and Children: Non-Pharmacological Measures of Prevention

A surgical site infection (SSI) is an infection that occurs in the incision created by an invasive surgical procedure. Although most infections are treatable with antibiotics, SSIs remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality after surgery and have a significant economic impact on health systems. Preventive measures are essential to decrease the incidence of SSIs and antibiotic abuse, but data in the literature regarding risk factors for SSIs in the pediatric age group are scarce, and current guidelines for the prevention of the risk of developing SSIs are mainly focused on the adult population. This document describes the current knowledge on risk factors for SSIs in neonates and children undergoing surgery and has the purpose of providing guidance to health care professionals for the prevention of SSIs in this population. Our aim is to consider the possible non-pharmacological measures that can be adopted to prevent SSIs. To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide recommendations based on a careful review of the available scientific evidence for the non-pharmacological prevention of SSIs in neonates and children. The specific scenarios developed are intended to guide the healthcare professional in practice to ensure standardized management of the neonatal and pediatric patients, decrease the incidence of SSIs and reduce antibiotic abuse.

SHEA Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) White Paper Series: Practical approaches for the prevention of central-line-associated bloodstream infections

This document is part of the "SHEA Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) White Paper Series." It is intended to provide practical, expert opinion, and/or evidence-based answers to frequently asked questions about CLABSI detection and prevention in the NICU. This document serves as a companion to the CDC Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) Guideline for Prevention of Infections in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Patients. Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are among the most frequent invasive infections among infants in the NICU and contribute to substantial morbidity and mortality. Infants who survive CLABSIs have prolonged hospitalization resulting in increased healthcare costs and suffer greater comorbidities including worse neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes. A bundled approach to central line care practices in the NICU has reduced CLABSI rates, but challenges remain. This document was authored by pediatric infectious diseases specialists, neonatologists, advanced practice nurse practitioners, infection preventionists, members of the HICPAC guideline-writing panel, and members of the SHEA Pediatric Leadership Council. For the selected topic areas, the authors provide practical approaches in question-and-answer format, with answers based on consensus expert opinion within the context of the literature search conducted for the companion HICPAC document and supplemented by other published information retrieved by the authors. Two documents in the series precede this one: "Practical approaches to Clostridioides difficile prevention" published in August 2018 and "Practical approaches to Staphylococcus aureus prevention," published in September 2020.

Preterm Infant Skin Structure Is Qualitatively and Quantitatively Different From That of Term Newborns

BACKGROUND

The immature skin of preterm infants is uniquely vulnerable to pressure and chemical injury. We sought to qualitatively and quantitatively describe the histopathologic patterns of skin development in preterm infants.

METHODS

Autopsy skin samples were examined for 48 liveborn preterm infants born at 18+ to 36 weeks, and control groups of term neonates and older infants/children. Quantitative variables included thickness of the stratum corneum, epidermis, and dermis. Qualitative features included stratum corneum, rete ridges, and hair follicles.

RESULTS

Patterns of maturation were reproducible. Compact keratin appeared beginning at 21-22 weeks. Basketweave keratin appeared first around hair follicles, and then became more generalized from ∼28 weeks corrected gestational age (CGA) onward. Rete ridges began to appear at ∼30 weeks. Epidemal and dermal thickness increased with age. Infants who survived ≤7 days had thicker dermis than those who survived longer, even adjusted for CGA.

CONCLUSIONS

Skin development in preterm infants has reproducible milestones. Significant structural changes occurring around 28-30 weeks may improve barrier function, with implications for use of topical compounds such as chlorhexidine. The findings also highlight challenges in evaluating pressure injuries in preterm infants, and postnatal changes in skin parameters.

Ultrasound-guided anatomical evaluation and percutaneous cannulation of the right internal jugular vein in infants <4000 g

BACKGROUND

The commonly preferred right internal jugular vein was investigated in terms of its dimensions, the relationship between its dimensions and anthropometric measures, and the outcomes of its cannulation in infants. Data regarding its position with respect to the carotid artery indicated anatomical variation.

AIM

The aim of this study was to share our observations pertaining to the anatomy and position of the right internal jugular vein with respect to carotid artery using ultrasound and our experience with ultrasound-guided right internal jugular vein access in neonates and small infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 25 neonates and small infants (<4000 g) undergoing ultrasound-guided central venous cannulation via right internal jugular vein within a 6-month period were included. Ultrasound-guided anatomical evaluation of the vein was used to obtain the transverse and anteroposterior diameters, the depth from skin and the position with respect to the carotid artery. Real-time ultrasound-guided central cannulation success rates and complication rates were also obtained. The patients were divided into two groups with respect to their weight in order to compare both the position and the dimensions of right internal jugular vein and cannulation performance in infants weighing <2500 g and ⩾2500 g.

RESULTS

The position was lateral to the carotid artery in 84% of all infants and similar in both groups. The first-attempt success rates of cannulation were similar (70% vs 73.3%) in both groups, with an overall success rate of 88%.

CONCLUSION

Right internal jugular vein revealed a varying position with respect to carotid artery with a higher rate of lateral position. The presence of such anatomical variation requires ultrasonographic evaluation prior to interventions and real-time guidance during interventions involving right internal jugular vein.

Vascular access in children

Securing stable vascular access is an important clinical skill for the anaesthesiologist. Sick children, complex surgeries, chronic illnesses, multiple hospitalisations, and prolonged treatments can make vascular access challenging. A search was done in the English language literature using the keywords "paediatric," "vascular access," "venous access," and "techniques" or "complications" in Pubmed, Embase, and Google scholar databases. Articles were screened and appropriate content was included. Intraosseous access is a lifesaving technique that can be performed even in hypovolaemic patients rapidly. Transillumination and near-infrared light improve visualisation of superficial veins in difficult access. Ultrasonography has become the standard of care in selecting the vessel, size of catheter, guide placement, and prevent complications. Fluoroscopy is used during insertion of long-term vascular access devices. This article reviews the various routes of access, their indications, most appropriate site, securing techniques, advantages, disadvantages, and complications associated with vascular access in children.

Skin Injuries and Chlorhexidine Gluconate-Based Antisepsis in Early Premature Infants: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Early premature infants are subjected to many invasive procedures in neonatal intensive care units, and effective skin antisepsis is an essential step in caring for these vulnerable patients. Nevertheless, preterm infants have an anatomically and physiologically immature skin and preserving their skin integrity is essential to avoid the risk of local and systemic complications. Skin particularities of newborns reduce the list of available antiseptics in neonatology. Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) has excellent antiseptic properties and its antimicrobial efficacy cannot be understated, but there is great concern about its use for premature infants, referring to the risk of development skin injuries, such as skin erythema, burns, and blisters. Current guidelines do not recommend the use of CHG as antiseptic in the neonatal population, but despite the lack of safety data in premature infants, CHG is commonly used worldwide for off-label indications in neonatal intensive care units. A clinical case of an infant born at 26 weeks of gestation who sustained a CHG-related chemical burn after skin antisepsis was reported. A review of the literature was undertaken to evaluate the skin safety of CHG in infants born less than 32 weeks of gestation, to summarize clinical practice' recommendations, and to discuss the wound treatment options available.