Wound Care and Antisepsis

Introduction to Povidone-Iodine

Povidone-iodine applied with a non-sterile pad provides adequate infection protection for most uncomplicated skin lacerations, though a sterile dressing would be preferred for optimal infection prevention in high-risk wounds 1
Povidone-iodine is recognized as an effective antiseptic for skin preparation before surgical procedures 2
A 0.5-2% alcoholic chlorhexidine solution is generally preferred over povidone-iodine for central venous access device site preparation, but povidone-iodine remains an acceptable alternative when chlorhexidine is contraindicated 1, 3

Hand antisepsis and aseptic non-touch technique are recommended when managing wounds to prevent contamination 3
For complex or contaminated wounds, or in high-risk patients, sterile technique with sterile application materials is preferred 4
Surgical preparation with povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine is recommended for complex or contaminated wounds, or in high-risk patients 4
Prophylactic antibiotics may be warranted in addition to topical antisepsis for complex or contaminated wounds, or in high-risk patients 5

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends surgical preparation with povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine for complex or contaminated wounds, or in high-risk patients 4
The use of povidone-iodine on patients with known iodine allergies is not recommended 1, 3