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Did you know that the HoG and Beacon pharmacies only distribute sterile alcohol wipes and swabs?

By Karen L. Geney, VP Human Resources

Back in 2011 there were two voluntary recalls of alcohol swabs and wipes.  In January, there was a voluntary recall by the manufacturer for alcohol wipes and swabs that may have been contaminated by bacteria.  In August, there was a recall of alcohol swabsticks, which are primarily used for PICC lines or ports.

These recalls came about after the death of a two-year-old in Texas from a meningitis infection.  His parents said the infection was caused by alcohol prep wipes contaminated with bacteria.  Eventually there were 11 deaths possibly tied to these tainted alcohol prep products.

As anyone who injects clotting factor knows, these alcohol products are used to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin prior to an injection.  Many people wondered how products intended to reduce infection could actually cause it. The investigation into these recalled products determined that the contamination happened during the manufacturing process.

It turns out that the regulations surrounding the production of antiseptic products were written in the 1970s.  At the time it was thought that antiseptic products didn't need to be produced in a sterile environment because experts believed that any pathogens present would be killed by the antiseptic.  Recent reports have disputed that idea.

After the second recall, the HoG and Beacon pharmacies decided to distribute only sterile alcohol wipes and swabs. So, how can you tell if an alcohol wipe or swab is sterile? The word "sterile" will be printed on the outside of the packet.  If it does not say sterile, it most likely isn't.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) held a hearing December 12 and 13, 2012 to discuss ways to reduce potentially dangerous bacteria in antiseptic wipes, swabs, pads and solutions.  As soon as a transcript of the meeting is available, it will be posted at www.regulations.gov.