Evaluation of a new germicidal hand creme

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Hand hygiene is crucial for infection control.
• Reducing microbial flora on the skin is a key objective.
• Existing hand hygiene products vary in their speed and spectrum of activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a new germicidal hand creme in reducing bacterial levels on the hands.
• To compare the antimicrobial activity of the creme against common skin bacteria.
• To determine the duration of antimicrobial activity after application.

Main Methods:

• Colony counts of coagulase-negative staphylococci were measured before and after application of the hand creme.
• Antimicrobial activity was assessed over time.
• The creme's activity was compared to that of a standard bar soap.

Main Results:

• The germicidal hand creme significantly reduced coagulase-negative staphylococci immediately after use.
• Antimicrobial activity persisted for 90-120 minutes post-application.
• The creme demonstrated greater activity against gram-positive cocci (staphylococci) than gram-negative bacilli.
• The creme's rapid action and targeted effect against gram-positive bacteria were noted, contrasting with the slower, broader activity of bar soap.

Conclusions:

• The new germicidal hand creme provides rapid and targeted reduction of gram-positive bacterial flora on the hands.
• Its sustained antimicrobial activity suggests utility for maintaining reduced microbial levels between standard hand washings.
• This product may serve as a valuable adjunct to traditional hand hygiene practices for further reducing skin microbial load.