Mundelein, IL -  Medline Industries Inc., the nation's largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of medical supplies is teaming up with BODE CHEMIE, a leading European medical manufacturer to provide Sterillium Rub, a powerful surgical hand rub to the United States healthcare market.

"We're very excited to launch this breakthrough surgical hand antisepsis nationwide. Sterillium is powerful. It meets and exceeds the FDA requirements for waterless pre-operative surgical hand preps, including 6 hour persistence," said Jonathan Primer, president, Medline Dermal Management Systems division. "And perhaps just as importantly, surgeons and clinicians really appreciate the way this product feels during and after use. Its unique formula dries very quickly after applying, and leaves the hands feeling soft and smooth, without leaving product build up - allowing for easy gloving."

Made with a blend of emollients that help hydrate the skin, Sterillium helps prevent drying and irritation. Sterillium's versatile LX10 dispensing system allows for customized dispensing for a variety of hospital applications. The system includes an automatic touch-free unit, designed to better support hand and surgical hygiene compliance.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines for Hand Hygiene recommend the use of alcohol rubs. The Guidelines note that clinical studies demonstrate that alcohol-based hand antiseptics are even more effective than hand washing in reducing bacteria. Reduction and elimination of microorganisms from the surgical team's hands is critical. Sterillium meets national and international efficacy specifications and has been demonstrated to be extremely effective and reliable.

"Surgical teams have to disinfect their hands constantly throughout the day and Sterillium is the most effective and kindest way to do that. Sterillium rapidly penetrates the skin but is active and effective for hours and its potent emollients help to moisturize the skin as opposed to scrubbing with brushes that damage the barrier function of the skin and can lead to dermatitis," said Primer.

Other benefits Sterillium provides include:

• No product residue allowing for easier gloving
• Reduces amount of time from "rub to glove"
• Automatic touchless dispenser prevents cross contamination
• Exceeds FDA guidelines for immediate kill, persistence and cumulative effect.