flammable). Don't let the prep pool during
application; if excess solution drips off the
patient, remove soaked materials such as
drapes, gowns and towels before activating
electrosurgery devices. When prepping the
neck, place towels on either side to catch
runoff and remove the towels from the surgi-
cal field before surgery begins.
Should you use an alcohol-based
prep for head and neck surgery?
a. yes b. no c. sometimes
Answer: c
Some alcohol-based preps should not be used
around the eyes, ears and mouth because they
can cause significant injury if they enter those
sensitive areas. At least one manufacturer says
it's safe to use a smaller-sized applicator that
applies prep in a concentrated area.
A diluted povidone-iodine solution is a good
choice for surgery performed on the face,
says Molly Wright, RN, the clinical care coor-
dinator of the surgical department at Tri-State
Memorial Hospital in Clarkston, Wash. When
applying the prep, be sure to tape the patient's
eyes shut and ensure the solution does not
pool underneath the tape, says Ms. Wright.
She says ophthalmic ointment helps protect
the eyes during prepping.
4 4 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 7
info13@viscot.com • 800.221.0658
www.viscot.com
ChloraPrep® is a registered trademark of CareFusion
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