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Alcohol Swabs

Product Description

The sterile alcohol swabs distributed by OHRDP are individually wrapped in sterile and water-resistant packages.

Alcohol swabs are used to clean the injection site before injection. Swabs also remove any blood resulting from the injection from fingers and other surfaces.

Alcohol swabs are for single use only.

Practice/Usage

  • Alcohol swabs can be used to clean the injection site, to wipe clean the surface used to prepare for injection, and to clean injection or smoking equipment.
  • Swabs are used when soap and water is not available and for that reason alone, it is important that individuals have as many alcohol swabs are they request. Alcohol swabs should not be shared and each person should have as many alcohol swabs as they need.
  • If alcohol swabs are not available, a second choice may be rubbing alcohol, aftershave lotion.
  • For stocking purposes, Needle Exchange Programs should estimate a minimum of two swabs per needle distributed.

Discussion/Associated Risks

  • Alcohol swabs should not be shared as they have been identified in the transmission of blood borne pathogens.
  • Injecting without first cleaning the injection site can lead to bacteria on the skin entering the blood stream and causing infection.
  • It is important that the injection site not be touched by fingers after it has been cleaned. Cleaning the skin prior to injection is one of the most important things that can be done to reduce the risk of endocarditis, blood poisoning, and similar infections.
  • Alcohol swabs should not be used after injecting to clean the injection site or to attempt to stop bleeding. The alcohol in the swab may dissolve the blood clot and the wiping action can interfere with the clot formation. Encourage a clean, dry tissue/paper towel with pressure until injection site seals itself.

Sources

  • Strike C, Leonard L, Millson M, Anstice S, Berkeley N, Medd E. Ontario Needle Exchange Programs: Best Practices Recommendations. Toronto: Ontario Needle Exchange Coordinating Committee 2006
  • Getting off Right, A Safety Manual for Injection Drug Users, Harm Reduction Coalition