As of Dec. 20, 2018, manufacturers can no longer manufacture and distribute triclosan antibacterial handwashes for the healthcare market, according to an article on the McKnight's Long-Term Care News website.
For long-term care facilities that are wondering their options are, three next steps are suggested:
• Verify that a triclosan-based soap is being used. If you are uncertain, your soap supplier will be able to help you.
• Determine how much triclosan soap inventory is on-hand. The final rule does not state that healthcare facilities must immediately stop using triclosan; rather, it means that manufacturers must stop selling it.
• Discuss triclosan alternatives. Some providers will want to continue using an antimicrobial soap and others may use this opportunity to explore switching to a non-antimicrobial soap.
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