Policy Name:
Skin Preparation
Approved Date:
Section:
Surgical Services
Review Date:
Policy #:
Revised Date:
Purpose:
To establish protocol
POLICY
Skin preparation of the operative site will be done immediately prior to draping in the operating room.
PROCEDURE
Determine whether patient has allergies to any of the agents used for skin preparation.
Assess the operative site for presence of lesions and hair.
If hair removal is required, use clippers with new disposable blade.
Pick up shaved hair with lint roller.
Prepare operative site and surrounding area with appropriate antimicrobial agent.
Available agents are Betadine scrub, Betadine solution, Betadine gel, Betadine spray, Hibiclens,
Phisohex, and Duraprep.
Apply antimicrobial agent using sterile supplies and sterile gloves or no-touch technique, proceeding from
the incision site to the periphery.
Prevent solutions from pooling beneath the patient, tourniquet, electrodes, or electrosurgical dispersive
pad.
Confirm skin prep is dry before draping.
Document skin preparation, including:

Hair removal (if done)

Antimicrobial agent used

Name of person performing skin preparation

Development of any reaction.

Prep dried prior to draping.