Alcohol Swab 70% IPA

DESCRIPTION

An Alcohol Swab 70% IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol), also commonly referred to as an alcohol prep pad, is a small, disposable pad pre-saturated with a 70% solution of Isopropyl Alcohol and 30% purified water.

Here is a detailed description:

• Composition:
  • Active Ingredient: 70% Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA). The 70% concentration is critical because the presence of water acts as a catalyst, allowing the alcohol to penetrate the cell walls of bacteria, coagulate the proteins, and effectively kill the microorganisms. Solutions higher than 90% coagulate the surface proteins instantly, preventing deeper penetration and making them less effective as disinfectants.
  • Inactive Ingredient: Purified Water (approximately 30%).
• Form/Packaging: The swab itself is a small, soft, absorbent pad (often cotton or non-woven fabric). It is typically sealed individually in a small, airtight, foil, or plastic packet to maintain sterility and prevent the alcohol from evaporating before use.
• Purpose (Antiseptic/Disinfectant): It is a topical antiseptic used to rapidly reduce the number of transient microorganisms on the skin. Its primary purpose is to disinfect skin before a procedure to prevent infection.
• Common Uses:
  • Cleaning the skin before injections (shots), vaccinations, or blood draws (venipuncture).
  • Preparing the skin prior to minor medical procedures or IV catheter insertion.
  • Cleansing minor cuts, scrapes, and burns to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Used in first aid kits, clinics, hospitals, and at home.
• Mechanism: When applied to the skin, the 70% IPA quickly denatures the proteins of the cell walls of bacteria, effectively killing them. The rapid evaporation of the alcohol ensures the site is dry before a needle is inserted.
• Warnings:
  • For external use only.
  • Highly flammable—keep away from fire or flame.
  • Do not use on large areas of the body or on irritated/broken skin (other than minor cuts/scrapes).
  • Single-use and disposable.