Drug safety update
December 2014: Chlorhexidine: reminder of potential for hypersensitivity
December 2014: Chlorhexidine solutions: reminder of the risk of chemical burns in premature infants
December 2014: Hydrogen peroxide: reminder of risk of gas embolism when used in surgery
Potassium permanganate solution 1 in 10 000 is a mild antiseptic with astringent properties and can be used for exudating eczematous areas. It can stain skin and nails, especially with prolonged use.
Secondary Care Notes
Potassium permanganate soaks must be prescribed by a Doctor, but will not be authorised by Pharmacy until a TVN assessment has confirmed it is an appropriate treatment – the exception to this will be if it is prescribed directly by the Vascular team. Please ensure that a referral has been completed on SUNRISE and photographs have been sent to the Tissue viability inbox to ensure there are no delays in starting treatment or offering an alternate plan if it is required.
Potassium permanganate soaks can only be used whilst an inpatient – they will not be authorised or dispensed if added to an EDN.
NPSA Alerts
April 2022: Inadvertent oral administration of potassium permanganate
