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M AY 2 0 1 4 | S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P AT 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
ommendations that products be purchased in single-use containers and that
antiseptic solutions not be diluted.
Evidence and common sense tell us that it's wise for perioperative team mem-
bers to confirm the surgical site before the time out and before they apply any anti-
septic, as failure to do so can set off a cascade of events leading to wrong-site sur-
gery. There's also some evidence that using colored antiseptics results in fewer
missed spots. Additionally, clear antiseptics may result in an increased fire hazard,
if unseen solution drips or pools near the patient.
Product selection
There are significant variables to consider when selecting skin preps, and the
best evidence suggests that such decisions should be made by multidisciplinary
teams that include perioperative RNs, physicians and infection-prevention spe-
S K I N P R E P P I N G
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