In 2026, several key trends are shaping TOC sampling, including low-TOC background containers, improved sample integrity, certification, automation compatibility, and updated pharmaceutical water requirements.

1. Low-TOC Background Is Becoming More Important

TOC analysis measures very low levels of organic carbon, which means contamination from the sampling container itself can potentially affect results.

Possible sources include:

• Container materials and manufacturing residues
• Cleaning agents
• Caps and septa
• Improper handling
• Environmental contamination

For sensitive applications, laboratories increasingly choose low-TOC or TOC-certified containers. Some commercial products specify container backgrounds below 10 or 20 ppb TOC and provide certificates of analysis.

This highlights an important principle: reliable TOC testing starts with sample integrity, not only the analyzer.

2. TOC Certification and Traceability

Another important trend is greater emphasis on documented container quality.

For controlled laboratory and pharmaceutical applications, useful documentation may include:

• TOC background specifications
• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Batch or lot identification
• Cleaning information
• Manufacturing and packaging specifications

Such documentation helps laboratories improve consistency and traceability when establishing their sampling procedures.

3. The 2026 European Pharmacopoeia Update

A significant regulatory development in 2026 is the update to the European Pharmacopoeia requirements for pharmaceutical water.

The revised Chapter 2.2.44, “Total Organic Carbon in Water for Pharmaceutical Use,” became applicable on July 1, 2026. The revision includes changes to TOC testing and introduces Method B for sterilised water for injections (SWFI).

These changes make appropriate sampling procedures and container selection increasingly relevant for laboratories working with pharmaceutical water.

4. Compatibility With Automated TOC Analysis

Laboratory automation is also influencing TOC container design.

As autosamplers become more common, containers need to match the laboratory’s equipment and workflow. Important considerations include:

• Container dimensions
• Sample volume
• Closure design
• Autosampler compatibility
• Sample identification and handling

TOC-certified containers are already available in formats designed for automated sampling systems.

5. How to Choose a TOC Sample Bottle

When selecting a TOC sample bottle, laboratories should consider more than capacity.

Low TOC Background
The container should introduce minimal additional organic carbon.

Material Compatibility
The material should be appropriate for the sample and analytical procedure.

Reliable Closure
A secure closure helps protect samples from contamination during storage and transportation.

Cleaning and Certification
Pre-cleaned or certified containers can provide better control for sensitive applications.

Instrument Compatibility
For automated testing, the container should be compatible with the laboratory’s autosampler.

6. The Future of TOC Sampling

The overall trend is moving toward better control of the entire sampling workflow, rather than focusing only on the TOC analyzer.

Future developments are likely to continue around:

• Lower container background
• Improved cleaning processes
• Better certification and traceability
• Automation compatibility
• More standardized sampling procedures

For laboratories performing sensitive TOC analysis, the sample container should therefore be considered an integral part of the testing process.

Huachenyang TOC Sampling Solutions

Huachenyang develops and manufactures laboratory and medical sampling products for professional testing applications.

Our TOC sampling solutions focus on practical requirements such as consistent manufacturing quality, reliable sealing, appropriate container design, and controlled sample handling.

For laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, and OEM/ODM customers, Huachenyang provides professional sampling solutions designed for different application requirements.

Key Factors of a Reliable Stool Collection Tube

1. Low-Temperature Resistant Material

Material selection is the foundation of low-temperature performance. Polypropylene (PP) is widely used for laboratory tubes because of its chemical resistance and suitability for low-temperature applications.

However, using PP alone does not guarantee performance at a specific temperature. Polymer grade, tube thickness, structure, and manufacturing quality can all affect resistance to cracking, deformation, and brittleness.

2. Structural Integrity

Freezing can change the mechanical behavior of plastic materials. A suitable stool collection tube should maintain its shape and physical integrity throughout the intended storage temperature range.

Important design factors include:

Resistance to cracking and deformation

Consistent tube wall thickness

Stable tube geometry

Durable bottom structure

Suitable cap and tube interface

3. Reliable Sealing and Leak Resistance

Low-temperature storage can place additional demands on the tube and closure system. A secure seal helps prevent leakage, contamination, and sample loss during freezing and transportation.

For this reason, the tube and cap should be evaluated as a complete system, rather than considering the tube material alone.

4. Freeze-Thaw Performance

Some laboratory workflows involve repeated freezing and thawing. Temperature cycling can place additional mechanical stress on both the tube and its closure.

Performance evaluation may include:

• Low-temperature exposure
• Freeze-thaw cycles
• Visual inspection
• Cap integrity
• Leakage testing
• Dimensional stability

The appropriate test conditions should be based on the intended application and validated product specifications.

5. Clearly Defined Temperature Performance

“Low-temperature resistant” should not be treated as a vague marketing claim. Buyers should look for a clearly defined and validated temperature range.

For example, commercial laboratory tubes may specify storage temperatures of -80°C or lower, depending on their material, design, and intended application. Some stool preservation products also identify freezer compatibility as a product feature.

The manufacturer’s specifications should distinguish between:

Storage temperature · Operating temperature · Freeze-thaw conditions · Cryogenic storage

Choosing a Low-Temperature Stool Collection Tube

When selecting a stool sample collection tube, laboratories and IVD buyers should consider:

Huachenyang Low-Temperature Resistant Stool Collection Tube

Huachenyang Low-Temperature Resistant Stool Collection Tube is designed for stool sample collection workflows where reliable handling under low-temperature conditions is required.

Its performance can be evaluated from several key aspects, including material selection, tube structure, sealing performance, low-temperature resistance, and sample containment.

For laboratories, diagnostic companies, IVD manufacturers, and distributors, selecting a properly validated stool collection tube can help support reliable sample collection, cold-chain transportation, and laboratory processing.

Conclusion

A reliable Low-Temperature Resistant Stool Collection Tube is more than a container that can withstand cold temperatures. Material properties, structural integrity, sealing performance, leakage resistance, and validated temperature performance all contribute to dependable sample handling.

For cold-storage and cold-chain workflows, these factors provide a practical basis for selecting the right stool collection tube for laboratory and diagnostic applications.

For more than a decade, Huachenyang (HCY) has developed and supplied viral transport media and specimen collection products for diagnostic and research applications. Today, Huachenyang’s iClean Viral Transport System (VTM-RT Kit)is listed with the U.S. FDA under 510(k) K212856, with the FDA identifying Huachenyang as the manufacturer of the non-propagating transport system.

VTM Used in Peer-Reviewed Infectious Disease Research

Huachenyang VTM and specimen collection products have appeared in published research involving SARS-CoV-2 testing and viral surveillance.

In a study conducted by researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Kirby Institute, the commercial HCY-CV19-UTM, Cat. No. CY-F003-40, was specifically evaluated as a viral transport medium in SARS-CoV-2 research.

Huachenyang collection products were also documented in Qatar’s large-scale SARS-CoV-2 testing system. Research published in Scientific Reports reported the use of Huachenyang swabs for nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal specimen collection, with samples placed in Universal Transport Medium and subsequently processed using multiple molecular testing platforms.

Other peer-reviewed studies from Qatar similarly documented Huachenyang collection products in research involving COVID-19 epidemiology, reinfection, risk assessment, and variant surveillance.

These publications demonstrate the role of Huachenyang products in real-world specimen collection and infectious disease research—not simply in laboratory product testing.

FDA 510(k) VTM for Professional Diagnostic Applications

Huachenyang’s iClean Viral Transport System (VTM-RT Kit) received FDA 510(k) substantial equivalence determination under K212856. The FDA describes the device as a non-propagating transport system intended for the collection and transport of viral specimens for laboratory culture and downstream testing.

The FDA’s current device listing continues to identify Huachenyang as the manufacturer of the iClean Viral Transport System and related VTM/UTM products.

For international laboratories, diagnostic companies, distributors, and OEM buyers, this provides an important foundation when evaluating a VTM manufacturer or viral transport medium supplier.

Built for Long-Term VTM Supply

Huachenyang combines established VTM manufacturing experience with GMP production facilities, cleanroom capabilities, quality management systems, and international regulatory certifications. Its current product range includes multiple viral transport medium formats and volumes for different specimen collection workflows.

Whether the requirement is for routine molecular diagnostics, infectious disease surveillance, laboratory testing, or OEM supply, Huachenyang provides a mature VTM kit and viral specimen collection solution designed for consistent, scalable supply.

Looking for a reliable VTM manufacturer or FDA 510(k) VTM supplier? Contact Huachenyang to discuss your VTM, UTM, specimen collection, OEM, and bulk supply requirements.

From Liquid Saliva to Dried Samples

Traditional saliva collection relies on tubes that store samples in liquid form. While effective, liquid samples require suitable containers, packaging, storage, and transportation.

The development of dried biological sample technologies, particularly Dried Blood Spot (DBS) collection, demonstrated that biological materials could be collected onto an absorbent matrix, dried, and transported in a compact format.

This concept helped establish the foundation for card-based biological sample collection.

Why Saliva Became a DNA Sample

As PCR, genetic testing, and molecular research developed, saliva gained attention as a convenient and non-invasive source of human DNA.

Unlike blood collection, saliva collection generally does not require needles or venipuncture. This makes it useful for:

• Genetic testing
• DNA research
• Genotyping
• Population studies
• Pharmacogenomics
• Epidemiological research

The focus therefore shifted from simply collecting saliva to improving saliva DNA collection, preservation, and transportation.

The Development of Saliva Collection Cards

A Saliva Collection Card applies the dried-sample concept to saliva-based biological material.

A typical workflow is:

Saliva Collection → Sample Absorption → Drying → Storage/Transportation → DNA Extraction → Molecular Testing

Compared with conventional liquid saliva collection, a card format can provide a compact and convenient approach for certain decentralized and large-scale collection workflows.

The key value is not simply the card itself, but its role in the pre-analytical stage of DNA testing.

Saliva Collection Cards Today

Modern Saliva DNA Collection Cards can be designed with dedicated collection areas, sample identification, protective packaging, and compatibility with validated DNA extraction workflows.

Potential applications include:

• Genetic testing
• Molecular research
• Population studies
• Biobanking
• Clinical research
• Decentralized sample collection

For laboratories and genetic testing companies, the ideal solution connects:

Sample Collection → Preservation → Transportation → DNA Extraction → Molecular Analysis

Huachenyang Saliva Collection Solutions

Huachenyang develops biological sample collection and preservation products, including Saliva Collection Cards, DNA collection products, specimen collection swabs, and sample preservation solutions.

The development of saliva collection technology reflects a broader trend in molecular diagnostics: making biological sample collection simpler, more accessible, and easier to integrate with downstream laboratory testing.

For laboratories, diagnostic companies, research institutions, and distributors, a reliable Saliva Collection Card can provide a practical starting point for modern saliva DNA collection workflows.

FAQ

What is a Saliva Collection Card?
A Saliva Collection Card is a card-based device designed to collect saliva-derived biological material for subsequent laboratory analysis.

Can a Saliva Collection Card be used for DNA testing?
Yes. When properly designed and validated, it can be used as part of a saliva DNA collection and molecular testing workflow.

Why use a Saliva Collection Card?
It provides a compact, non-invasive sample collection format that can be suitable for certain research, genetic testing, and decentralized collection applications.

This is where the Saliva Collection Card is gaining attention.

Compared with traditional saliva collection using a swab placed into a tube with preservation solution, a collection card offers a different approach: collecting the saliva sample directly onto a designated card for subsequent storage, transportation, and laboratory processing according to the applicable protocol.

Why Use a Saliva Collection Card?

The biggest advantage is not simply the card itself. It is the potential to simplify the entire saliva sample collectionworkflow.

A traditional swab-based process may involve collecting saliva with a swab, transferring the swab into a preservation tube, adding or using preservation solution, and sealing the tube before transportation.

A card-based workflow can be more straightforward:

Saliva collection → Collection Card → Storage/Transportation → Laboratory Processing

Fewer components and handling steps can make a difference when samples are collected outside a laboratory or when large numbers of samples need to be managed.

Less Liquid, Simpler Logistics

Preservation solution is useful for many saliva collection applications, but liquid-based systems also introduce additional considerations.

Tubes containing liquid require appropriate packaging and handling during transportation. For large-scale projects, procurement teams also need to manage preservation tubes, liquid media, packaging materials, and related inventory.

Where a card-based method is validated for the intended application, a Saliva Collection Card can reduce the dependence on liquid preservation components.

This can make sample kits more compact and simplify distribution and logistics.

A Practical Option for Large-Scale DNA Collection

The difference becomes more noticeable as sample numbers increase.

Imagine a research project collecting saliva from 1,000 participants. A swab-based system may require 1,000 swabs, 1,000 preservation tubes, preservation solution, and additional packaging.

A card-based system can provide a more compact way to organize individual samples, potentially making distribution, identification, transportation, and storage easier to manage.

For this reason, Saliva Collection Cards can be considered for applications such as DNA testing, genetic research, population studies, biobanking, field research, and decentralized sample collection.

Swab or Collection Card?

Neither method is universally better.

A swab with preservation solution may be the preferred option when a specific liquid preservation medium is required by the downstream testing process. A Saliva Collection Card, meanwhile, can be attractive when the priorities are simple collection, compact sample handling, reduced liquid management, and scalable logistics.

The right choice ultimately depends on the sample requirements and validated laboratory workflow.

Huachenyang Saliva Collection Card

For laboratories, research organizations, diagnostic companies, and distributors looking for a practical saliva sample collection solution, Huachenyang Saliva Collection Card provides a card-based approach designed around convenient sample collection and subsequent laboratory workflows.

As DNA testing continues to move beyond traditional laboratory settings, sample collection needs to become easier to distribute, manage, and scale.

Sometimes, improving a laboratory workflow starts with something as simple as changing how the sample is collected.

Huachenyang Saliva Collection Card — a simpler approach to saliva DNA collection.

In rapidly evolving outbreaks, delayed diagnosis can increase exposure risks and slow down infection control measures. Healthcare systems, laboratories, and emergency response organizations require reliable testing tools that can support early identification, surveillance, and outbreak management.

An Ebola Virus Antigen Rapid Test Kit is an in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) tool designed to support the rapid detection of Ebola virus antigens in clinical samples. Unlike antibody-based tests that detect the immune response after infection, antigen rapid tests focus on identifying viral components directly, helping healthcare professionals obtain timely diagnostic information during suspected Ebola cases.

The test is typically based on immunochromatographic technology, where specific antibodies embedded in the test device capture Ebola virus antigens present in the sample. When the target antigen is detected, a visible signal appears, allowing users to interpret preliminary results without relying on complex laboratory equipment.

Huachenyang Ebola Virus Antigen Rapid Test Kit is designed as an in-vitro diagnostic solution to support rapid Ebola virus antigen detection. With a streamlined testing workflow, convenient operation, and strict quality management, it provides healthcare professionals and global partners with an effective tool for infectious disease screening and emergency preparedness.

As an experienced IVD manufacturer, Huachenyang Technology continues to develop rapid diagnostic solutions that support hospitals, laboratories, distributors, and public health organizations in strengthening their response capabilities against emerging infectious disease threats.

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are widely used in hospitals for delivering medications, fluids, blood products, and long-term therapies. While these devices are essential in modern healthcare, they also increase the risk of catheter-related infections, particularly Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs).

Because microorganisms on the skin can enter the bloodstream during catheter insertion, infection prevention begins before the catheter is placed. Proper skin antisepsis is a key step in evidence-based catheter insertion protocols and works alongside hand hygiene, maximal sterile barriers, and catheter maintenance to reduce infection risks.

Why Is CHG Commonly Used?

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) is one of the most widely used antiseptics for catheter insertion because it combines rapid antimicrobial action with lasting protection.

When formulated with 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA), alcohol quickly reduces microorganisms on the skin, while CHG binds to the outer skin layer and continues suppressing bacterial growth after the solution has dried. This residual antimicrobial activity makes CHG an important component of many skin preparation protocols.

Healthcare professionals should always follow clinical guidelines, hospital policies, and the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use (IFU) when selecting and applying antiseptic products.

Proper Technique Matters

The effectiveness of skin antisepsis depends not only on the antiseptic itself but also on how it is applied.

Best practice includes:

• Applying enough solution to completely cover the insertion site.
• Using a sterile applicator.
• Allowing the antiseptic to dry naturally before catheter insertion.
• Maintaining aseptic technique throughout the procedure.

Following standardized procedures helps improve consistency and supports safer clinical practice.

Why CHG Applicators Make a Difference

Modern healthcare increasingly focuses on reducing unnecessary variation in clinical workflows.

Single-use sterile CHG applicators help clinicians apply antiseptic evenly, improve workflow efficiency, and support standardized skin preparation before catheter insertion.

A dedicated applicator also minimizes unnecessary handling of antiseptic solution, helping maintain sterile technique throughout the preparation process.

Supporting Clinical Practice with HCY CHG Applicators

At HCY, CHG applicators are designed to support efficient and standardized skin antisepsis in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Available in 26 mL, 30 mL, 35 mL, and 40 mL, HCY CHG Applicators are manufactured under sterile conditions and designed for consistent solution delivery, ergonomic handling, and reliable packaging. HCY also provides flexible OEM and private-label solutions for global medical distributors and healthcare brands.

By combining quality manufacturing with an understanding of clinical workflows, HCY aims to support healthcare professionals in performing safe, consistent skin preparation before catheter insertion and other invasive procedures.

Conclusion

Preventing catheter-related infections requires multiple evidence-based practices working together. Proper skin antisepsis, standardized application techniques, and reliable medical devices all contribute to safer patient care.

As hospitals continue strengthening infection prevention programs, CHG skin preparation remains an important part of supporting successful catheter insertion. Choosing a well-designed CHG applicator helps healthcare professionals perform this critical step with greater consistency and confidence.

Which antiseptic should be used to prepare the patient’s skin?

For decades, two antiseptics have been widely used in operating rooms around the world: chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) and povidone-iodine (PVP-I).

Both have played important roles in infection prevention. Both are supported by decades of clinical use. Yet clinicians, procurement teams, and healthcare distributors often ask the same question:

Does current clinical evidence favor one over the other?

The answer is more nuanced than many people expect.

Why Skin Antisepsis Matters

Healthy skin naturally carries millions of microorganisms. While these microbes are usually harmless, they can become a source of infection if they enter the body during surgery or other invasive procedures.

The goal of preoperative skin preparation is to reduce the number of microorganisms at the surgical site before an incision is made, helping lower the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs).

Choosing an appropriate antiseptic is therefore one part of a broader evidence-based infection prevention strategy.

Understanding the Difference

Although both products are skin antiseptics, they work in different ways.

Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG)

• Disrupts bacterial cell membranes.
• Provides rapid antimicrobial activity when combined with alcohol.
• Remains active on the skin after drying through residual antimicrobial activity.

Povidone-Iodine (PVP-I)

• Releases free iodine that inactivates a broad range of microorganisms.
• Has long been used in surgical skin preparation.
• Does not provide the same level of residual antimicrobial activity as CHG once it has dried.

Rather than viewing one antiseptic as universally superior, clinicians should understand the strengths of each option and select products according to clinical needs and institutional protocols.

What Does the Clinical Evidence Suggest?

Over the past two decades, numerous clinical studies have compared alcohol-based CHG preparations with povidone-iodine for preoperative skin antisepsis.

Several systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials have reported that alcohol-based CHG preparations may reduce surgical site infections in certain surgical settings when compared with aqueous povidone-iodine.

However, researchers also note that outcomes can vary depending on factors such as:

• Type of surgery
• Patient population
• Product formulation
• Application technique
• Hospital infection prevention protocols

This is why many professional guidelines focus on evidence-based product selection rather than recommending a single solution for every clinical situation.

The Applicator Matters Too

Clinical outcomes are influenced not only by the antiseptic itself but also by how it is applied.

Consistent coverage, adequate contact time, and correct drying all contribute to effective skin preparation.

Single-use sterile CHG applicators help support standardized application by delivering antiseptic evenly across the preparation area while reducing unnecessary variation during clinical practice.

For hospitals, this means product design can contribute to workflow consistency as well as infection prevention.

Supporting Standardized Skin Preparation with HCY

At HCY, CHG applicators are developed with a focus on practical clinical use.

Available in 26 mL, 30 mL, 35 mL, and 40 mL, HCY CHG applicators are designed to support different procedural requirements while emphasizing:

• Sterile manufacturing
• Consistent antiseptic delivery
• Ergonomic handling
• Reliable packaging
• OEM and private-label solutions for global medical partners

By combining product quality with an understanding of clinical workflows, HCY aims to support healthcare providers in delivering standardized skin antisepsis across a wide range of surgical and procedural settings.

Evidence Should Guide Every Decision

The discussion is no longer simply “CHG or povidone-iodine?”

Today’s infection prevention specialists are asking broader questions:

• Which product is supported by evidence for this procedure?
• Is the application technique standardized?
• Has the antiseptic been allowed to dry properly?
• Does the product fit the hospital’s clinical workflow?

Effective infection prevention depends on the combination of evidence-based antiseptics, standardized application, and well-designed medical devices.

As hospitals continue improving surgical safety, choosing the right skin preparation system means looking beyond the antiseptic itself—and focusing on the entire clinical process.

The surgical team has finished preparing the patient. Sterile drapes are in place. Instruments are ready. Everyone is waiting for the first incision.

Then, instead of handing over the scalpel immediately, the circulating nurse says:

“Please wait—it’s not dry yet.”

For patients, this brief pause may seem unnecessary.

For surgeons and infection prevention professionals, however, allowing chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) to dry completely is an essential step in safe surgical practice.

So why does this waiting period matter?

It’s Not Just About Dry Skin

Many people assume that once the skin no longer looks wet, surgery can begin.

In reality, drying allows two important processes to happen.

First, the 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) commonly used in CHG skin preparation solutions evaporates. Alcohol provides rapid antimicrobial action, but it also needs time to evaporate fully.

Second, CHG begins attaching to the outer layer of the skin (the stratum corneum). This helps create the residual antimicrobial activity that continues suppressing bacterial growth after the alcohol has evaporated.

Without adequate drying time, neither of these processes can perform as intended.

Why Drying Matters for Patient Safety

Allowing CHG to dry completely supports patient safety in several ways.

1. It helps achieve the intended antiseptic performance.

CHG requires sufficient contact with the skin to provide lasting antimicrobial protection. Wiping it away or covering the area too early may reduce its effectiveness.

2. It supports fire safety in the operating room.

Alcohol-based skin preparation solutions are flammable before they have completely dried. Electrosurgical units and other energy devices can generate heat or sparks during surgery, so operating room protocols emphasize allowing alcohol to evaporate fully before draping and incision.

3. It promotes standardized clinical practice.

Following the recommended drying time helps ensure that every patient receives consistent skin preparation, regardless of the procedure or surgical team.

What Do Clinical Guidelines Recommend?

Major infection prevention guidelines consistently emphasize an often-overlooked point:

Allow alcohol-based skin antiseptics to dry naturally before surgery or invasive procedures.

The exact drying time may vary depending on the product, the preparation area, hair density, and environmental conditions. Instead of relying on a fixed number of seconds, healthcare professionals should always follow the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use (IFU) and their hospital’s infection prevention protocols.

The goal is not simply to “wait”—it is to make sure the antiseptic has had enough time to work safely and effectively.

Good Skin Preparation Depends on Good Tools

Drying time is only one part of successful skin antisepsis.

The antiseptic must also be applied evenly across the intended preparation area using an appropriate technique.

This is why many healthcare facilities choose single-use sterile CHG applicators, which help deliver the solution consistently while supporting standardized clinical workflows.

At HCY, CHG applicators are developed with these practical clinical needs in mind. Available in 26 mL, 30 mL, 35 mL, and 40 mL, HCY applicators are designed to provide reliable solution delivery, sterile packaging, and ergonomic handling for a variety of surgical and procedural settings.

Rather than simply supplying an antiseptic applicator, HCY focuses on helping healthcare providers perform consistent and evidence-informed skin preparation.

A Few Extra Minutes Can Make a Meaningful Difference

When surgery is about to begin, waiting for the antiseptic to dry may feel like a small delay.

In reality, it reflects a much larger commitment to patient safety.

Effective infection prevention is rarely achieved through one breakthrough technology. More often, it comes from carefully following simple, evidence-based steps—proper hand hygiene, sterile technique, correct skin preparation, and allowing CHG to dry completely before the first incision.

Sometimes, one of the most important moments in surgery is the moment when the team chooses to wait.

While modern medicine has achieved remarkable progress through robotic surgery, advanced imaging, and minimally invasive techniques, hospitals worldwide continue to face a persistent challenge—surgical site infections (SSIs).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), SSIs remain one of the most common healthcare-associated infections, leading to longer hospital stays, additional treatments, and increased healthcare costs.

Although no single solution can eliminate all infections, evidence-based infection prevention practices show that proper skin antisepsis before surgery plays an important role in reducing microbial contamination.

But why has chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) become such an important part of modern skin preparation?

The Hidden Challenge: Microorganisms on Human Skin

Many people assume healthy skin is clean. In reality, human skin naturally carries millions of microorganisms, known as the skin microbiota.

Most of these microorganisms are harmless. However, when surgery or invasive procedures break the skin barrier, bacteria that normally live on the surface may enter deeper tissues and increase infection risks.

The goal of surgical skin preparation is not to completely sterilize the skin—which is impossible—but to significantly reduce microbial levels before and during procedures.

This is why proper antisepsis has become a fundamental part of infection prevention.

Why CHG Is Different from Alcohol Alone

Alcohol-based antiseptics are widely used because they provide rapid microbial reduction.

However, alcohol has one limitation: once it evaporates, its antimicrobial activity quickly decreases.

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) works differently.

CHG molecules can bind to the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, allowing continued antimicrobial activity even after the solution dries.

This characteristic is called residual antimicrobial activity.

In simple terms:

• Alcohol provides fast action.
• CHG provides longer-lasting protection.

This combination helps explain why alcohol-based CHG formulations are widely used in many surgical and invasive procedure settings.

Why Proper Application Matters

Choosing the right antiseptic is only one part of effective skin preparation.

Clinical outcomes also depend on:

• Complete coverage of the preparation area
• Correct application technique
• Appropriate contact time
• Allowing the antiseptic to dry completely

This is where CHG applicators play an important role.

A well-designed applicator helps healthcare professionals apply antiseptic consistently, reduce variation during preparation, and support standardized infection prevention workflows.

The applicator is not simply a container for antiseptic—it is a tool designed around real clinical needs.

From Clinical Needs to Product Design: HCY CHG Applicators

As infection prevention standards continue to evolve, medical device manufacturers are paying increasing attention to how products support healthcare professionals in daily practice.

At HCY, CHG applicator development focuses on the practical requirements of modern clinical environments, including consistent solution delivery, sterile manufacturing, reliable packaging, and ease of use.

HCY provides sterile CHG applicators in multiple capacities, including:

• 26 mL
• 30 mL
• 35 mL
• 40 mL

These options allow healthcare providers and OEM partners to select suitable configurations for different procedure requirements.

By combining medical device manufacturing experience with an understanding of clinical workflows, HCY aims to support safer and more standardized skin antisepsis practices worldwide.

Small Steps, Greater Patient Safety

The fight against surgical site infections is not based on one single technology.

It depends on many carefully controlled steps—from hand hygiene and sterile technique to effective skin preparation.

Behind every CHG applicator is a larger goal: helping healthcare professionals perform consistent infection prevention practices that protect patients before, during, and after procedures.

In modern healthcare, the smallest details often create the biggest impact.

While the phrase attracted attention because of its unusual wording, the underlying issue reflects a much broader challenge faced by healthcare systems worldwide: how to ensure urine specimens are collected, handled, and transported correctly before they reach the laboratory.

The incident was not simply about the number of samples. It highlighted the importance of standardized specimen collection processes and the growing need for more efficient laboratory workflows.

Specimen Quality Starts Before the Laboratory

Urine testing plays an important role in diagnosing urinary tract infections, kidney conditions, metabolic disorders, and other health issues. However, the accuracy of laboratory results depends heavily on the quality of the original specimen.

Before a urine sample reaches an analyzer, it has already gone through several critical steps, including:

• Patient preparation
• Sample collection
• Container selection
• Identification and labeling
• Transportation
• Storage

Errors during these pre-analytical stages can affect sample quality and may lead to repeat testing, delayed diagnosis, and additional healthcare costs.

For laboratories, improving specimen quality is not only a technical goal — it is also a key part of improving overall healthcare efficiency.

Why Standardized Urine Collection Matters

As hospitals and diagnostic laboratories become more automated, the importance of standardized specimen management continues to grow.

Traditional urine collection methods may require multiple manual handling steps, which can create challenges related to:

• Sample contamination risks
• Inconsistent workflows
• Difficult transportation management
• Additional handling time

Vacuum urine collection systems provide a more standardized approach by enabling controlled transfer of urine specimens into designated tubes.

This type of workflow can support laboratories by helping improve:

• Sample consistency
• Transportation efficiency
• Traceability
• Laboratory productivity

However, technology alone is not enough. The best results come from combining appropriate collection devices with clear procedures, staff training, and effective quality management systems.

From Collection Devices to Complete Diagnostic Solutions

The “Tsunami of Pee” discussion serves as a reminder that specimen collection is not a simple administrative step. It is the beginning of the diagnostic process.

Healthcare providers and laboratories are increasingly looking beyond individual products and focusing on complete specimen management solutions.

This includes choosing medical consumable suppliers that understand:

• Healthcare workflow requirements
• Quality management standards
• Regulatory expectations
• Customization needs for different markets

As a medical consumables manufacturer, Huachenyang continues to focus on specimen collection solutions designed to support reliable laboratory workflows. Through manufacturing expertise, quality management practices, and OEM/ODM capabilities, the company works with healthcare partners to meet evolving diagnostic needs worldwide.

Looking Ahead: Building More Reliable Specimen Management

The discussion surrounding the UK’s “Tsunami of Pee” incident highlights an important lesson for modern healthcare:

Accurate diagnostics begin with high-quality specimens.

As laboratories continue to pursue greater efficiency and accuracy, standardized urine collection solutions will play an increasingly important role in improving patient safety, reducing unnecessary repeat testing, and supporting better diagnostic outcomes.

The future of laboratory medicine is not only about more advanced testing technologies — it is also about improving every step before testing begins.

Early Antiseptics: The Beginning of Infection Control

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advances in microbiology changed the way healthcare professionals understood infection. As the relationship between microorganisms and disease became clearer, antiseptic solutions became an essential tool in wound management and surgical care.

Early disinfectants focused primarily on reducing microbial contamination. Although these solutions had limitations, they played an important role in establishing the foundation of modern infection prevention practices.

The Era of Traditional Antiseptics: Red Medicine and Gentian Violet

During the early to mid-20th century, traditional antiseptics such as Mercurochrome (Merbromin), commonly known as Red Medicine, became widely used in households and healthcare settings.

Its visible color made application easy to identify, which contributed to its popularity for minor wound care. However, concerns related to mercury-containing compounds and limitations in antimicrobial performance gradually encouraged the development of safer alternatives.

Another well-known antiseptic from this period was Gentian Violet (Crystal Violet), often recognized as Blue Medicine or Purple Medicine in different regions. Introduced into medical use in the early 20th century, it demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal properties and was used in various skin and mucosal applications.

However, visible staining and limitations in broader clinical applications led to reduced use as healthcare standards continued to advance.

The Povidone-Iodine Era: Safer and Broader Clinical Applications

The development of Povidone-Iodine (PVP-I) in the mid-20th century represented an important advancement in antiseptic technology.

By improving the stability and usability of iodine, PVP-I became widely adopted in healthcare environments for skin preparation, wound care, and pre-procedure disinfection.

Its broad antimicrobial activity made it a commonly used antiseptic solution worldwide. However, as medical procedures became increasingly sophisticated, healthcare professionals began seeking solutions that could provide faster action, longer-lasting antimicrobial protection, and more consistent application.

The Rise of Chlorhexidine: Advancing Modern Infection Prevention

Since its introduction into healthcare applications in the 1950s, Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG) has become an important antiseptic component in modern infection prevention strategies.

CHG works by interacting with microbial cell membranes, helping disrupt microbial structures. Its advantages include:

• Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity
• Rapid antimicrobial action
• Residual antimicrobial activity after application

Today, CHG is widely used in areas such as:

• Surgical skin preparation
• Central line care
• Medical procedure preparation
• Healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prevention

The development of CHG represents a shift in medical thinking — from simply eliminating microorganisms to creating more reliable and sustainable infection prevention practices.

From Advanced Solutions to Standardized Application: The Role of Applicators

As antiseptic formulations continue to improve, healthcare has recognized that effective infection prevention depends not only on the solution itself but also on how it is applied.

Traditional application methods may involve variations in dosage, coverage area, and technique. To address these challenges, pre-filled antiseptic applicators have been developed to support more standardized skin preparation procedures.

Modern solutions such as CHG Applicators and Iodine Applicators help provide:

• Controlled antiseptic delivery
• Consistent application procedures
• Reduced variation between operators
• Improved workflow efficiency in healthcare environments

Following this industry trend, medical consumable manufacturers including HCY continue to develop standardized skin preparation solutions, offering both CHG Applicators and Iodine Applicators to support evolving infection prevention requirements.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Antiseptic Technology

The evolution from Red Medicine and Gentian Violet to Povidone-Iodine and Chlorhexidine demonstrates how healthcare continues to advance toward safer, more effective, and more standardized infection control solutions.

The future of antiseptic technology will not only focus on improving formulations but also on optimizing the entire application process. Through the combination of advanced antiseptic solutions and standardized delivery systems, healthcare providers can continue moving toward more reliable infection prevention practices.