Mark Endicott M.D.
2801 K Street Suite 500
Sacramento, Ca 95816
916-733-8710/ 492-8744 (fax)
RECOMMENDED PRE-OPERATIVE SKIN CLEANSING
Showering or bathing with an antiseptic agent prior to surgery to reduce the
Number of microorganisms on the skin is recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, and is supported by clinical trials. Unless contraindicated,
patients should shower (3) consecutive times beginning the day prior to surgery with 4%
chlorhexidine gluconate (hibiclens) liquid.
In studies, this practice was found to reduce the skin flora by 20 fold preoperatively
And lowered the bacterial counts of the incision at the end of the procedure. Please check with
your physician to determine if using CHG(Hibiclens) is contraindicated.
CHG (Hibiclens) can be purchased over the counter at any pharmacy for approximately $11
(8oz). You will need to purchase at least (2) bottles.
Following each preoperative shower the skin should be:
Thoroughly rinsed
Dried with a fresh, clean, dry towel
The patient should dress in clean clothing
Rinsing the skin removes residual CHG that may cause skin irritation. After use, towels contain
microorganisms that can grow in the presence of moisture. Using a fresh towel after each shower
and wearing clean clothing minimizes the risk of reintroducing microorganisms to clean skin.
Avoid CHG contact with the eyes, inside of the ears, the inside of the mouth , or other mucous
membranes. Conditioners and other hair products should not be used after performing
preoperative shampoos as the antiseptic effectiveness of the CHG may be impeded
PATIENTS WITH A HISTORY OF MRSA
It is recommended by the Infectious Disease Specialist for patients with a history of MRSA to do
the following:
1. Wash with Hibiclens Body Wash once a day from scalp to toes. Allow the wash to
completely dry before rinsing clean. Follow this process for 5 days prior to surgery. (This can
be purchased over the counter at most drug stores)
2. Apply Bactrobam 2% ointment twice a day to each nostril for 5 days prior to surgery. ( A
prescription can be issued to your pharmacy)