Abstract
The skin of premature newborns is not developed sufficiently to serve as an effective barrier against the effect of chemicals contained in disinfectants. There is still no adequately efficient and safe disinfectant for use in extremely premature newborns.
Most complications after the use of antiseptics are manifested by a transient erythematous rash, however, occasionally a more severe form of skin damage occur. This case report describes the development of skin damage after application of an antiseptic solution to the umbilical stump before cannulation of the umbilical vessels in a neonate born at 25 weeks of gestation.
Interventions of selection and application of materials for moist wound healing to treat necrosis are presented, with respect to the healing stage, site of origin, and frequency of dressings.