Repeated application of self-adhesive transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation electrodes: an assessment of skin microflora.

摘要

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is used by physiotherapists throughout the world to manage acute and chronic pain [1]. During TENS, electrical currents are generated by a portable battery-powered device and delivered through the skin using re-usable self-adhesive electrodes attached to the intact skin surface. TENS electrodes are made of knitted stainless steel fibres which form a conductive surface which is backed with polyurethane film on one side and Multistick adhesive gel on the other. The goal of TENS is to activate underlying nerves, as this has been shown to reduce transmission of pain-related information in the central nervous system. Patients can purchase TENS without prescription to self-administer treatment at home for a wide variety of pains, including wound pain. In hospital settings, TENS is used for pain associated with childbirth and surgical procedures. TENS is generally considered safe, although contamination from the re-use of TENS electrodes may prove hazardous to patients [1].