Which disinfectant is recommended by CLSI for blood culture site preparation in patients with iodine sensitivity?

Chlorhexidine gluconate is the recommended disinfectant for blood culture site preparation in patients with iodine sensitivity because it provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity while minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. Unlike iodine and its compounds, chlorhexidine is not derived from iodine, making it a safe and effective alternative for those who may have sensitivities to iodine. It is effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, which is crucial for ensuring a clean and sterile site prior to blood collection. This attribute, combined with chlorhexidine’s residual activity, helps reduce the risk of contamination, enhancing the reliability of blood culture results.

Using alternatives such as iodine tincture could provoke adverse reactions in sensitive individuals, while hydrogen peroxide is less commonly used for skin antisepsis due to its potential to irritate skin at higher concentrations and lack of residual activity. Silvadene cream is primarily used for burn treatment and is not designed as a skin antiseptic for blood collections. Thus, chlorhexidine gluconate stands out as the optimal choice in this context.