Although its usage for umbilical cord care was specifically studied, chlorhexidine digluconate is a broad spectrum antiseptic that is available in a range of doses and has been used safely for over 40 years for a variety of health-related purposes.
However it is recorded that it has been adopted mostly for the use of umbilical cord after child birth. When used as instructed, chlorhexidine has a well-established safety profile and has been in use for more than 50 years.
Source: Global Health Media Project
When used in accordance with instructions, the formulation of chlorhexidine digluconate used for cord care is beneficial in preventing neonatal sepsis brought on by bacterial exposure through the fresh umbilical stump.
The ear canal should also not be exposed to it, as it might cause major harm if applied to the eyes.
The cord needs to be kept clean and dry at all times due to the fact that not caring for your baby’s cord can harbor bacteria and get infections. Babies whose umbilical cords have not yet detached do not require a full bath.
To keep the cable dry, they must wear clothing that allows air to circulate around it. It is crucial that carers continue to practice general good hygiene, which includes washing their hands with soap and water before touching the baby.
Storage of chlorxy g gel
Keep out of children’s reach. Do not store expired or unnecessary medications.
The medication should be kept at room temperature in a closed container away from heat, moisture, and bright light. prevent freezing. The alcohol content of the Chloraprep® and Hibistat® products is high (70%) and flammable. Avoid keeping them next to a heater, flame, or electrical source.
How to apply chlorxy g gel
Apply chlorhexidine to the stump, cord tip, and area around the stump’s base right away after cutting the chord. Keep chlorhexidine away from the eyes and ears and always wash your hands before and after using. Through the infant’s first week of life, repeat the application once daily.
Applying chlorhexidine within the first 24 hours of birth is crucial. If used once daily for seven days, it may replace non-hygienic traditional applications and lower the risk of local infection. When the product has finished its application term, discard it.
Make sure the baby is warm and adequately wrapped, exposing only the naval region, before applying chlorhexidine. Before piercing the tube, properly wash your hands with soap and water. Break the inner tube shield using the lid’s pointed protuberance.
As soon as the chord has been severed using the index finger, apply 3g (a circular mass with a diameter of about 2.5 cm) of Chlorxy-G Gel (4% chlorhexidine) gel to the cord stump. For the following seven days, application must be done each day.Keep the cord dry and clean, and don’t use any products on it.
Dosage
Immediately after cutting the cord, or within the first seven days of life if the newborn was delivered at home, one application of 3 g of gel to the umbilical cord stump.
In environments where customary unsanitary practices are prevalent: each day for the first seven days of life, one application.
