Final answer:
Substances like hydrogen peroxide should not be applied after povidone-iodine as they can reduce the effectiveness of the antiseptic and potentially irritate the skin. Oils and lotions should also be avoided as they can create a barrier preventing proper disinfection.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the application of povidone-iodine, which is a common iodophor used for its antiseptic properties, certain substances should not be applied. Povidone iodine works effectively as a disinfectant because it slowly releases iodine, oxidizing cellular components and killing microbes.
However, it's important to avoid applying substances that can react with iodine. Specifically, one should not apply hydrogen peroxide after povidone-iodine because it can lead to a chemical reaction that reduces the effectiveness of both substances, potentially resulting in skin irritation or the neutralization of their antimicrobial effects. Additionally, the application of oils or lotions might also impede the efficacy of povidone-iodine by creating a barrier between the antiseptic and the skin.