[Microbiological evaluation of 1% silver sulfadiazine dressings]

This study aimed at evaluating the microbial condition and antimicrobial activity of 1% silver sulfadiazine dressings used in burns, prepared in advance of the dressing change and stored for 12 to 60 hours before usage. The microbial condition was evaluated by means of three cultures prepared from the Letheen Broth (Difco) culture medium and incubated at 32-35 degrees C for 20 days. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by means of the diffusion technique of one dressing culture in hospital strains, initially incubated at room temperature and then at 37 degrees C, for 18-24 hours. All three cultures of 12, 36 and 60 hours proved negative. Concerning antimicrobial activity, the zones of inhibition were: 2.25 mm for S. aureus; 2.65 mm for P. aeruginosa and 2.95 mm for E. coli. These dressings can be safely prepared by nurses and stored, reducing nurses' time spent for dressing change and, consequently, patients' exposure.