Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 22, 2026

The Portable Chemical Sterilizer PCS, D-FENS, and D-FEND ALL: Novel Chlorine Dioxide Decontamination Technologies for the Military
Published on: June 29, 2014
Universal decolonization with hypochlorous solution in a burn intensive care unit in a tertiary care community
Dorinne Gray1, Kevin Foster2, Abner Cruz1
1Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Maricopa Integrated Health System, Phoenix, AZ.
Abstract:
Infections are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in burn patients. Patients colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are at higher risk of developing an invasive infection, and MRSA is endemic in many burn units. The typical decolonization regimen of mupirocin and chlorhexidine bathing is not optimal in burn patients because of chlorhexidine limitations on nonintact skin. We studied the impact of universal decolonization using mupirocin and hypochlorous acid bathing on health care-associated MRSA infections in a burn intensive care unit. We show a significant decrease in total MRSA infections.
Related Concept Videos
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods
Steam sterilization uses non-toxic, low-cost moist heat in the form of saturated steam under pressure, which is fast, microbicidal, and sporicidal, and quickly warms and penetrates fabrics. Autoclaves, or steam sterilizers, expose each item to direct steam contact for a predetermined time at the necessary...
Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison

