====== Skin Preparation ======

The surgical [[skin]] prep shall be performed using an Infection Prevention and Control Program approved [[antiseptic]] agent. 

===== Antiseptic Solutions =====

[[Antiseptic Solutions]]

Whenever possible the recommendation is for use of a [[Chlorhexidine]]-Alcohol prepping solution;
however factors to be considered in the selection of a preoperative skin antiseptic agent
include, but are not limited to:

 [[Allergy]].

 Condition of involved area.

 Number and/or types of contaminants

 The characteristics of the skin to be cleansed/disinfected

 General physical condition of the patient

 The written review of the manufacturer’s information

 The surgeon’s preference

 The agent should be non-irritating, non-toxic, easily applied

Antiseptic agents shall:

 have any unused portion of opened bottles, not containing preservative (ie. 4%
alcohol) immediately discarded after use

 be dated if containing preservative (ie. 4% alcohol). Bottles shall be discarded
after 30 days or per manufacturer’s recommendations

 not be warmed (unless recommended by manufacturer), as this may alter the
chemical properties and equilibrium of the solution causing burns

 be applied by non-scrubbed personnel

 be applied in a manner to prevent pooling:

o in skin creases

o under the patient

o around/below a tourniquet

o under an electrosurgical dispersive electrode; or o near EKG electrodes; and

 not remove [[surgical site marking]]s when surgical skin prep is performed.

see http://www.wrha.mb.ca/extranet/eipt/files/EIPT-005-001.pdf