Comparison of the Effects of Medicinal Plant Oil Compounds and Benzalkonium Chloride Solution as Hand-Rubs on Bacterial Samples Isolated from the Hands of Nurses at Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital, Yazd, Iran

Hand hygiene is one of the most important factors in preventing the transmission of hospital pathogens. In recent years, significant emphasis has been placed on the use of medicinal plant compounds for disinfection. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a combination of three medicinal plant oils with a benzalkonium chloride solution as a disinfectant on bacterial samples isolated from the hands of nurses.

The present study was a semi-experimental investigation conducted in 2020 with 110 nurses working in the operating room, Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD), and various inpatient and specialized departments of Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital in Yazd, Iran. A non-probability convenience sampling method was employed. In the first group, a combination of Aloe vera, Eucalyptus, and Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oils was used in a liquid form at a concentration of 30% each, diluted with a 10% ethanol solvent. In the second group, an alcoholic hand sanitizer solution was utilized, containing 70% ethanol, 0.125% benzalkonium chloride, vitamin E, color additives, and deionized water. Before and after the intervention, in both groups, three types of bacterial species including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis were collected from the hands of the nurses. Additionally, the level of satisfaction among the nurses regarding skin and respiratory sensitivities was assessed using a researcher-developed checklist that demonstrated reliability and validity. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing descriptive and analytical statistical tests, including the t-test, paired t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher's exact test, chi-square test, and McNemar's test.

The use of alcoholic solutions was more effective in reducing hand bacterial agents than herbal compounds (P = 0.002). A significant difference was observed between the two groups using herbal compounds and alcoholic solutions regarding sensitivity and eczema (P = 0.003), with a higher frequency reported among individuals who used alcoholic solutions. However, no significant difference was noted in terms of skin dryness between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Based on the results of the present study and the environmental conditions of the hospital, as well as the types of existing infections, it is recommended that alcohol hand-rubs be used. Nevertheless, further research is encouraged to identify herbal medicines with greater antibacterial potential, particularly in the hospital setting.