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Dakin solution, also called Dakin fluid or Carrel-Dakin fluid, is a dilute sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) solution commonly known as bleach. The sodium peroxide (NaO) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) mixture produces sodium hypochlorite. The main active agent in Dakin solution is created when the chlorine reacts with water in the environment to form hypochlorous acid (HClO). This hypochlorous acid produces a potent antibacterial effect in tissues. This activity reviews the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, toxicity, and administration of Dakin solution as it applies to the clinical setting. Objectives: Identify the indications for the use of Dakin solution in a clinical setting. Explain the potential adverse effects of Dakin solution. Describe the various strengths of Dakin solution and which is best in the clinical setting. Explain the importance of improving care coordination among the interprofessional team to enhance patient care delivery when using Dakin solution for its intended indications. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Ingesting diluted sodium hypochlorite generally causes only mild stomach irritation; however, swallowing larger amounts can cause more serious symptoms, including chest pain, delirium, hypotension, burns to the gastrointestinal tract, shock, bradycardia, nausea, and vomiting.[10] The concentration of sodium hypochlorite in industrial-strength bleach is high and may cause severe injury.[8] Never mixing ammonia with sodium hypochlorite (bleach or bleach-containing products) is important. This mixture can produce toxic chlorine gas that can cause choking and serious breathing problems. HCl is formed when chlorine gas contacts moist tissues like the eyes or lungs. HCl is a digestive juice that damages tissue; it can damage the airways, cause asphyxiation, and result in death. It is important to note that activated charcoal does not effectively treat (adsorb) sodium hypochlorite. Treatment depends on the severity of the toxicity with medical management for mild-moderate cases of toxicity to surgery if there are perforations noted along the gastrointestinal tract.

Dakin solution bactericidal antiseptic is very popular. Clinicians (MDs, DOs, DPMs, NPs, and PAs), surgeons, nurses, and pharmacists should know its use, appropriate concentrations, and potential adverse effects. It treats or prevents infections from cuts, abrasions, lacerations, skin ulcers, stage I to IV pressure ulcers, first- and second-degree burns, and even during surgery. An interprofessional team approach to its use provides the best patient outcomes.[11]