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S U R G I C A L
S K I N
A N T I S E P S I S
TIPS FOR COMPLIANCE
7 Ways to Ensure Adherence To Skin Prep Protocols
nce you
O
know what
the right
prep is and how to
apply it, how do you
ensure compliance?
Perhaps you have a surgeon who won't wait for
the prep to dry or insists
on using a prep that's not consistent with your facility's policy. Some tips:
1. Standardize as much as possible. Identify all items required for the procedure and use a standardized list to confirm their availability each time.
2. Make sure patients receive detailed instructions on showering. Have
patients repeat instructions during the pre-op phone call.
3. When the patient arrives in pre-op, have the nurse verify that all pre-op
protocols were followed (pre-op shower or skin cleansing). Question the
patient regarding skin irritation or hypersensitivity in prior surgical experiences or any new skin conditions, such as boils, eruptions or rashes —
this may change the type of prep solution you should use. For example,
chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) may irritate sensitive skin with these conditions.
4. Cleanse with a CHG wipe in pre-op just before surgery. This is especially
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | D E C E M B E R 2012
