Whaa...? Pre-op instructions include bathing with anti-bacterial soap

[Skidmore]

before going to the hospital????

I'm having a surgical procedure done on Friday morning. It will be done in outpatient surgery and under general anesthesia. Just got off the call for the pre-surgery call and I was told that besides no liquids or food after midnight on Thursday, to make certain I bathe with an antibacterial soap before I come in. I've never received such instructions before. Sitting here kinda wondering if that will be the extent of antiseptic precautions??

:o

[ananda]

1. They're just CYA.

nt

[HERVEPA]

2. No, it won't be the extent.

Just an extra precaution.

[KittyWampus]

3. That's just to remove your cooties.

[w8liftinglady]

4. no.They are just being extra careful

I did the same thing before my brain surgery.
Hospitals in the US are anal about cleanliness.

[Le Taz Hot]

5. I was actually given a special

pre-op anti-bacterial soap by my doctor before surgery 6 years ago. I think it's pretty much standard procedure anymore.

[Greybnk48]

6. This is SOP and has been for years.

People carry bugs on their skin that are relatively harmless unless you are cut or scratched (causing an inoculation), so the shower is an extra precaution against infection. It also saves the hospital time and money to have you shower at home (with Dial soap or something similar). They will prep the incision site with something much more potent (Betadine or Hibiclens) so don't worry about that.

[yellerpup]

7. I didn't get instructions from my doctor

but I researched it and bought special antibacterial soap before my surgery. Reducing your risk of infection helps you heal faster. You won't be sorry for taking this precaution.

[madamesilverspurs]

8. Standard procedure, in my experience.

Preliminary to a thorough antiseptic scrub of the surgical area immediately prior to the procedure.

Good luck to you!

-

[get the red out]

9. Same deal for me a year ago

Except they had me bathe in anti-bacterial soap for a number of days prior to my surgery. I think it is just the first step in disinfecting you.

[SidDithers]

10. The fewer bugs you bring to the hospital, the better for everyone already at the hospital...nt

Sid

[aquamarina]

11. This has been going on for years.

[Skidmore]

12. It's been quite a few years since I've had a surgery.

[thatgemguy]

13. My last surgery

I was advised to shower with a anti-bacterial soap (Hibicleanse) I had to get at the drug store. I had to arrive at the hospital at 4:30 in the morning, and was taken to surgery at 8:30. Previous surgeries aways required admission the day before with antibiotic IV before the proceedure. Things sure have changed...