Schulke Microshield Chlorhexidine Surgical Handrub 500ml Waterless Hand Antiseptic

Product Overview

Schulke Microshield Handrub is a professional-grade, alcohol-based hand antiseptic containing chlorhexidine gluconate 0.5% w/v combined with ethanol 70% v/v. Manufactured by Schulke & Mayr GmbH, a global leader in infection prevention and hygiene products since 1889, this handrub provides immediate antimicrobial action through its ethanol base while delivering persistent residual activity via the chlorhexidine gluconate component. The dual-action formulation ensures broad-spectrum efficacy against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses.

The 500ml pump bottle is designed for point-of-care placement in clinical settings including hospital wards, outpatient clinics, dental practices, and surgical suites across Singapore. Microshield Handrub meets EN 1500 standards for hygienic hand disinfection (30-second contact time) and EN 12791 standards for surgical hand disinfection (90-second contact time on hands and forearms). The product contains emollients to maintain skin integrity during frequent application, reducing the risk of dermatitis associated with repeated hand antisepsis protocols.

Specifications

Clinical Indications

• Pre-operative surgical hand disinfection for operating theatre personnel per WHO surgical safety checklist protocols
• Hygienic hand disinfection between patient contacts in hospital wards, ICUs, and outpatient settings
• Hand antisepsis prior to aseptic procedures including central line insertion, catheterisation, and wound dressing changes
• Point-of-care hand hygiene in dental clinics and ambulatory surgical centres
• Waterless hand disinfection in clinical areas where handwashing facilities are not immediately accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Microshield Handrub and Microshield 4 Surgical Handwash?

Microshield Handrub is a waterless, alcohol-based formulation containing chlorhexidine 0.5% w/v in ethanol 70% v/v, designed for rapid hand disinfection without water. Microshield 4 is an aqueous-based surgical handwash containing chlorhexidine 4% w/v, intended for use with water at scrub sinks. Both products are TGA-registered and comply with EN standards for hand antisepsis. The choice depends on the clinical scenario and institutional hand hygiene protocols, as guided by the WHO Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care.

How long does the antimicrobial effect persist after application?

The ethanol component provides immediate bactericidal activity upon application, while the chlorhexidine gluconate 0.5% binds to the stratum corneum and provides sustained residual antimicrobial activity for several hours. This persistent effect is a distinguishing characteristic of chlorhexidine-containing hand antiseptics compared to plain alcohol-based handrubs, as documented in WHO hand hygiene guidelines.

Is Microshield Handrub safe for frequent use throughout clinical shifts?

The formulation includes skin-conditioning emollients designed to mitigate the drying effects of repeated alcohol-based hand antisepsis. Healthcare workers performing 40 or more hand hygiene events per shift can use this product with reduced risk of irritant contact dermatitis. Institutions should provide complementary skin care protocols consistent with occupational health guidelines.

Is this product registered for use in Singapore healthcare facilities?

Schulke products are distributed in Singapore through authorised medical supply channels. The product carries TGA registration (Australia) and CE marking, which are recognised reference standards by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) Singapore for importation and use of medical-grade antiseptics in licensed healthcare facilities. Facilities should verify current HSA import permit status with their procurement department.

What are the recommended storage conditions in tropical climates?

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, open flames, and ignition sources. In Singapore's tropical climate, ensure storage areas are climate-controlled or well-ventilated. The product has a shelf life of 36 months from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.