Conduct a longitudinal study

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 104 views

The Relationship between Hand Sanitizer Use and Irritant Contact Dermatitis in Medical Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way people live, work, and interact with each other. One of the most notable changes is the increased use of hand sanitizers as a practical and convenient method of hand cleaning. Hand sanitizers are liquid solutions that contain various active ingredients, particularly alcohol, which serve to kill microorganisms that can cause infection. However, excessive use of hand sanitizers can lead to side effects, such as skin irritation, which is a concern among students, especially in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of North Sumatra.

The Importance of Understanding the Relationship between Hand Sanitizer Use and Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis is an unspecified skin inflammatory reaction that occurs due to direct contact with irritants. This condition is a special concern among students, particularly in the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra, where they often interact with patients and are exposed to various chemicals and substances that can cause skin irritation. Understanding the relationship between hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis is crucial in providing appropriate solutions to prevent dermatitis and educating students about the safe use of hand sanitizers.

Research Methods and Results

This study used an observational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach to explore the relationship between hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis in students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra. The study used consecutive sampling techniques to ensure that all research subjects had the same opportunity to be selected. Data was collected through a questionnaire that was distributed online and secondary data regarding the number of students from the faculty. The data collected was then analyzed using univariate and bivariate analysis to determine the relationship between hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis.

The results of the study showed that 21.0% of students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra experienced irritant contact dermatitis. From the infected group, 78.2% were women and 21.8% were male. The type of hand sanitizer used also affected the prevalence of dermatitis, with 58.2% of students using hand sanitizers in spray form and 41.8% using gels. Interestingly, 92.7% of those who experienced dermatitis were alcohol-based hand sanitizer users.

Further analysis showed that the prevalence of irritant contact dermatitis was higher in hand sanitizer users who had an alcohol content of 60-70% (61.8%) compared to those that contained 71-95% (38.2%). In addition, the use of prolonged hand sanitizers also contributed to the occurrence of dermatitis, with 87.3% of respondents who experienced dermatitis having used a hand sanitizer for more than 6 months.

Conclusion and Relevance

The results of the study showed that there was no significant relationship between hand sanitizer use and the occurrence of irritant contact dermatitis, with a value of P = 0.554. Nevertheless, the high prevalence of dermatitis among students shows that it is essential to apply preventive measures. Students need to be given clear information about how to use the correct hand sanitizer and the recommended frequency to maintain healthy skin while still complying with the health protocol.

This study emphasizes the importance of awareness of the side effects of hand sanitizer use, especially among vulnerable individuals, such as medical students who often interact with patients. Education about skin care and the importance of hydration and the use of moisturizers after using a hand sanitizer can be a strategic step to reduce the incidence of irritant contact dermatitis. Thus, this research provides added value to health policies in the academic environment and contributions in efforts to maintain public health in the midst of the pandemic.

Recommendations for Future Research

Based on the findings of this study, several recommendations can be made for future research:

Conduct a longitudinal study: A longitudinal study can be conducted to investigate the long-term effects of hand sanitizer use on skin health.
Investigate the effects of different hand sanitizer types: Future studies can investigate the effects of different hand sanitizer types, such as gel, spray, or foam, on skin health.
Develop a skin care program: A skin care program can be developed to educate students about the importance of skin care and provide them with strategies to maintain healthy skin.
Conduct a study on the effects of hand sanitizer use on patients: A study can be conducted to investigate the effects of hand sanitizer use on patients, particularly those with skin conditions.

By understanding the relationship between hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis, we can provide appropriate solutions to prevent dermatitis and educate students about the safe use of hand sanitizers. This study provides a foundation for future research and contributes to the development of health policies in the academic environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hand Sanitizer Use and Irritant Contact Dermatitis

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread, the use of hand sanitizers has become a common practice to prevent the spread of infection. However, excessive use of hand sanitizers can lead to side effects, such as skin irritation, which is a concern among students, especially in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of North Sumatra. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis.

Q: What is irritant contact dermatitis?

A: Irritant contact dermatitis is an unspecified skin inflammatory reaction that occurs due to direct contact with irritants. This condition can be caused by exposure to chemicals, substances, or other agents that can damage the skin.

Q: What are the common causes of irritant contact dermatitis?

A: The common causes of irritant contact dermatitis include:

Exposure to chemicals or substances that can damage the skin
Frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizers
Use of harsh soaps or cleansers
Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity
Certain medical conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Q: Can hand sanitizer use cause irritant contact dermatitis?

A: Yes, excessive use of hand sanitizers can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Hand sanitizers contain various active ingredients, such as alcohol, which can dry out the skin and cause irritation.

Q: What are the symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis?

A: The symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis include:

Redness and inflammation of the skin
Itching or burning sensation
Dryness or cracking of the skin
Blisters or rashes

Q: How can I prevent irritant contact dermatitis?

A: To prevent irritant contact dermatitis, you can:

Use hand sanitizers in moderation
Choose hand sanitizers that are gentle and fragrance-free
Moisturize your skin regularly
Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or substances
Wear gloves when washing dishes or using harsh chemicals

Q: What should I do if I experience irritant contact dermatitis?

A: If you experience irritant contact dermatitis, you should:

Stop using the hand sanitizer or substance that caused the irritation
Apply a moisturizer or cream to soothe the skin
Avoid further exposure to the irritant
Seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen

Q: Can I use hand sanitizers if I have sensitive skin?

A: If you have sensitive skin, it is best to avoid using hand sanitizers or choose hand sanitizers that are gentle and fragrance-free. You can also try using hand sanitizers that are specifically designed for sensitive skin.

Q: How can I choose the right hand sanitizer?

A: When choosing a hand sanitizer, look for the following:

A gentle and fragrance-free formula
A moisturizing ingredient, such as aloe vera or glycerin
A low concentration of active ingredients, such as alcohol
A product that is specifically designed for sensitive skin

By understanding the relationship between hand sanitizer use and irritant contact dermatitis, we can take steps to prevent this condition and maintain healthy skin. Remember to use hand sanitizers in moderation, choose gentle and fragrance-free products, and moisturize your skin regularly to prevent irritant contact dermatitis.