A study on the reconstitution of botulinum toxin type A: normal saline versus bacteriostatic saline

Abstract

Background: This is a quantitative study on the reconstitution of botulinum toxin type A, whether medical aesthetics nurses use normal saline or bacteriostatic saline to reconstitute and what wider factors influence this clinical decision. Medical aesthetics nurses have not previously participated in this area of research. The existing research uses doctors as participants and excludes nurses. Ultimately, the decision lies with the prescriber, but there is a notable gap in knowledge and a need to explore the preferred practice of medical aesthetics nurses. Methods: An anonymous online survey was conducted with participants who were medical aesthetics nurses, based in the UK and members of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses. The survey tool was used to gather data on whether medical aesthetics nurses reconstitute botulinum toxin type A with preserved or normal saline. Results: 93.2% of participants used bacteriostatic saline to reconstitute botulinum toxin type A. Some 88.6% of participants were nurse independent prescribers, while 45.4% of participants had a minimum of 10 years' experience in medical aesthetics. All participants were trained by either a nurse or doctor. Conclusions: Medical aesthetics nurses are highly educated and motivated independent nurses. They have enterprising skillsets and it is highly unusual to find nurses with established private practices outside the specialism of medical aesthetics. Botulinum toxin type A treatments are one of the core treatments in any patient-centred, independent practice and are very much results driven. Sustaining high levels of patient satisfaction is an essential part of medical aesthetics nursing.