OSE_1212_part2_Layout 1 12/5/12 9:49 AM Page 64
S U R G I C A L
S K I N
A N T I S E P S I S
"One potential advantage of all-in-one applicators is that everything is
sterile out of the package," says Ms. Pettis. "It's just another potential
assurance."
Although all-in-one products can be more costly on an individual
basis, clinicians may find that they're cost-effective in the long run,
because appropriate application and product use are keys to the
effectiveness of the prepping process.
Whatever you choose, remove any wet items after prepping, and let
the solution dry to maximize efficacy. And don't let preps collect on or
pool underneath the skin, especially when using alcohol-based products. This lets any vapors dissipate before applying surgical drapes,
using electrodes or lasers, or activating a fiber-optic light cable, which
helps prevent fire, says Ms. Pettis. "Avoid getting the prep too close to
the patient's hair, as hair damp from prep solution can be flammable,
too." Finally, use an approved site marker to ensure the surgical site
isn't damaged or sensitized by this key step before the procedure
begins, says Ms. Pettis.
6. When should patients be
instructed to shower post-op?
Although there's no standard regarding post-op showering, instruct
patients to gently remove the prep solution around the incision site with
warm water or saline solution, says Ms. Greene. "Care must be taken to
keep the incisional area dry for the period instructed by the physician.
6 4
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
