To the Editor

After reading about the use of chlorhexidine (CHG) prep in the Spring 2003 issue the following questions come to mind:

1. Is CHG potentially useful and possibly preferable for use in preparing the skin area prior to regional nerve blocks?
2. Is CHG a problem for use on the face and mucous membranes?
3. Is potential deafness a concern if CHG enters the ear canal?
4. Should CHG be considered for preparation of the skin prior to insertion of a routine peripheral intravenous catheter or in special circumstances such as an immune compromised patient?

Any information regarding the above questions would be greatly appreciated.

Janet N. Siler, MD
Cinnaminson, NJ