Who got that stank?

Neutralizing ED Stank

Patients that stink can really hinder an ED. It creates a difficult work environment for ED staff and makes nearby patients, families and visitors uncomfortable. Here are a few ways I came across to neutralize the stank:

Nebulize stuff in the patients room

• Nebulized OJ (works well for malodorous feet)
• Nebulized coffee (works well for melena)
• Will partially mask the smell
• Works better in enclosed rooms w doors

For when you have to remove shoes & socks (malodorous feet):

1. Maalox booties

• Place feet in large trauma booties
• Fill w Maalox and allow to soak

2. Towel Soaks

• Mix warm water, betadine, peroxide and hibiclens (chlorhexidine) in basin
• Soak towels in solution then wrap feet
• Wrap feet and towel w blue pad
• Allow 15 minute soak

3. Topical sodium bicarb

• Use 1 amp per foot, apply topically
• Neutralizes most odors