Comparing the Impacts of Topical Chlorhexidine and Dry Cord Care on Umbilical Cord Separation Time among Neonates

Background: Delayed umbilical cord separation (UCS) can increase the risk ofinfection. Therefore, cord care is of great importance. Objectives: This studyaimed to compare the impacts of topical chlorhexidine and dry cord care on UCStime. Methods: In this quasi‑experimental study, 174 neonates were recruitedfrom two teaching hospitals affiliated to Kashan University of Medical Sciences,Kashan, Iran. They were assigned to chlorhexidine and dry cord care groups.In the first group, 4% chlorhexidine solution was applied to the cord stump 3 hafter birth and then every 12 h until 2 days after cord separation. The mothersof neonates in the dry cord care group were recommended to avoid using anymaterial on the cord stump. The signs of cord stump infection were assessedby mothers on a daily basis and also by the second author at four‑time points,namely, 3 h after birth (in hospital), 3 and 7 days after birth (through homevisits), and 2 days after cord separation (through home visits). UCS timewas documented by mothers. The Chi‑square and the independent‑samplest‑tests were used to analyze the data. Results: UCS time in the chlorhexidinegroup was significantly longer than the dry cord care group (13.28 ± 6.79 vs.7.85 ± 2.51 days; P 0.001). The longest separation time in these groups was53 and 17 days, respectively. There were no significant differences between thegroups with regard to infection signs, namely, discharge, redness, foul odor,inflammation, and swelling (P 0.05). Conclusion: Dry cord care not only is aseffective as topical use of chlorhexidine in preventing cord stump infection butalso is associated with shorter cord separation time.