CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE AND POVIDONE IODINE

Purpose and type of research This study was designed as a randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of preoperative use of CG and PI on the postoperative healing process and maternal postpartum comfort. Hypothesis H1: Cleaning the incision area with a 2% CG solution (containing 70% alcohol) is more effective in the wound healing process than PI. H2: Taking a shower with a 2% CG solution (containing 70% alcohol) 6 hours before, and cleaning the incision area, is more effective in the wound healing process than PI. H3: Cleaning the incision area with a 2% CG solution (containing 70% alcohol) produces a higher postpartum comfort level than PI. H4: Taking a shower 6 hours before with a 2% CG solution (containing 70% alcohol), and cleaning the incision area, produces a higher postpartum comfort level than PI. Variables in the study include dependent variables: signs of the wound healing process at the incision site (erythema, edema, ecchymosis, discharge, wound dehiscence and pain), and independent variables: a 2% CG (70% alcohol) solution and the application of PI. Participants This research was carried out in a Turkish research hospital clinic between February and May of 2021. The study sample consisted of all pregnant women (n = 504) who were hospitalized with a planned cesarean section scheduled between the study dates. The study sample consisted of 102 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria and who agreed to participate in the study after informed consent was obtained. They were randomly divided into groups. The study sample consisted of three groups: 1) those cleaned with povidone-iodine (PI) before the surgical incision, 2) those cleaned with chlorhexidine gluconate (CG) before the surgical incision and 3) those showering with CG six hours before the surgical incision and cleaned with CG before the surgical incision.