The Effect of Gowning on Labor Epidural Catheter Colonization Rate

Abstract

The use of gowns in the current study did not affect catheter colonization rate. Overall, there was a relatively high incidence of catheter-tip colonization in both groups, which underscores the need for strict aseptic technique.

Neuraxial Anesthesia and the Use of Sterile Gowning

“…A colonization rate of 7.6% was reported in the gowned group, and a 9.2% colonization rate was found for the ungowned group; however, this difference was not found to be statistically significant 16 . The study therefore emphasized the use of strict aseptic technique to minimize the potential for infectious complications in obstetric patients 16 …”

“…Most RCTs in our review studied the colonization rates of epidural catheters. In an RCT designed to investigate the result of sterile gowning on epidural colonization rates in obstetric patients, findings demonstrated a difference in colonization rates 16 . A colonization rate of 7.6% was reported in the gowned group, and a 9.2% colonization rate was found for the ungowned group; however, this difference was not found to be statistically significant 16 .…”

“…The colonization of an epidural catheter is one of many precursors to developing deeper tissue and epidural infections. Positive colonization is an essential antecedent to infection, and surface colonization may eventually channel into more profound infections 16 . Most RCTs in our review studied the colonization rates of epidural catheters.…”

“…In an RCT designed to investigate the result of sterile gowning on epidural colonization rates in obstetric patients, findings demonstrated a difference in colonization rates 16 . A colonization rate of 7.6% was reported in the gowned group, and a 9.2% colonization rate was found for the ungowned group; however, this difference was not found to be statistically significant 16 . The study therefore emphasized the use of strict aseptic technique to minimize the potential for infectious complications in obstetric patients 16 …”

“…Overall, the literature demonstrates inconsistent epidural infection rates that vary depending on the hospital and country 4,9,10,16,19,21 . Reasons cited for this variance include patient population, differences in clinical practice, duration of catheters in situ, and differences in sterile technique 4,8,9,16‐21 . The one prevailing, well‐defined outcome is the risk of infection as a result of neuraxial anesthesia.…”