Labeled Warnings

ChloraPrep should not be used:

• In children less than 2 months of age because of the potential for excessive skin irritation and increased drug absorption
• On patients with known allergies to chlorhexidine gluconate or isopropyl alcohol
• For lumbar puncture or in contact with the meninges
• On open skin wounds or as a general skin cleanser
• In or around eyes, ears and mouth. May cause serious or permanent injury if permitted to enter and remain

Additional labeled warnings of ChloraPrep include:

• Solution contains alcohol and gives off flammable vapors — allow to dry three minutes on skin
• Do not drape or use ignition source (e.g., cautery, laser) until solution is completely dry (minimum of 3 minutes on hairless skin; up to 1 hour in hair).
• Avoid getting solution into hairy areas. Wet hair is flammable. Hair may take up to 1 hour to dry.
• Do not allow the solution to pool
• Remove any soaked materials, drapes, and gowns before using ignition sources
• Whenever prepping the neck area, place towels under each side to absorb excess solution and then remove

For additional information on fire prevention in the operating room, please visit the following Web sites:

• AORN Guidance Document: Fire Prevention in the Operating Room
• CMS Guidance on Alcohol-based Skin Preparations in Anesthetizing Locations