Improving Wound Outcomes with Pure Hypochlorous Acid Based Cleanser

AbstractPURPOSE: To describe general impressions using a pure hypochlorous acid (HOCl) based wound cleanser in trauma, surgical and pressure related wounds.  DESIGN: Retrospective study.SUBJECTS AND SETTING: A 454-bed metropolitan Level I Trauma Center in the Midwestern United States. The inpatient wound consult services provided care to approximately 3 thousand individuals presenting with traumatic, surgical and/or pressure related injuries. Subjects were 18 years old or older, lived in the area, presented with wounds and agreed to be treated with HOCl solution. Data covers January to December 2020. METHODS: Implemented an evidence-based practice using an approved cleansing solution for the majority of wounds. Wound care included either cleansing, irrigation or, instillation with HOCl solution. Irrigation and cleansing solution is extracted from a photophobic one liter container. On average 50-60ml of solution is used for each daily dressing change. HOCl was implemented in 3 cases which will be detailed in a poster presentation. Measurements and characteristics of the wound (size, shape, color and odor) were documented thoroughly. Wounds loosely filled with gauze moistened HOCl to dry was avoided.RESULTS: Approximately 3 thousand referrals were made to the wound consult services. Further, 60-70% patients were treated with HOCl cleanser as a substitute for surgical soap and/or normal saline cleansing and irrigation. Patients spend limited time in an acute care hospital.  This results in lack of access to assess longitudinal resolution of wounds. However, during available assessments demonstrated a return or maintaining a healthy and resolving wound bed.  Patients who did leave usually were connected to an outside wound clinic or Home Care agency with discharging orders to continue with HOCL.CONCLUSION: Healing is laborious process for the human body. Wounds require hydration, nutrition, microclimate, protection, and pH balanced cleanser. The use of HOCl wound cleanser promoted healing through debris removal and prevented bacteria colonization. Adverse events were not reported with HOCl use.