When you prepare for any type of surgery, your surgeon will provide you with proper instructions that are specific to your type of surgery prior to your surgical appointment.
Below are some additional informative and general tips. Following these shower tips before your surgery can reduce the number of germs on your skin to reduce your risk of infection. Your skin will be prepared with an antiseptic before surgery but it will work better if your skin is clean. Any drug store will carry Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHD) - 4%, 4 ounce (115mL) bottle (i.e. Hibiclens or Dexidin) a body wash designed to reduce the bacteria on your skin.
Preparing for surgery:
Ask your doctor where your surgery incisions will be.
Buy CHD wash from your local pharmacy. If you are allergic to CHD talk to your surgeon.
Take TWO showers, one the night before surgery, and another the morning of surgery.
Have freshly laundered soft clean washcloths and towels available for EACH shower.
DO NOT! :
DO NOT shave your skin below your neck (this includes anywhere near where the surgical incisions will be located i.e. armpits, groin, abdominal wall, legs) for 7 days before surgery.
DO NOT use if you are allergic to Chlorhexidine. Consult with your surgeon.
DO NOT apply any lotions, moisturizers, or powders.
DO NOT apply hair products (i.e. gels, hair spray).
Shower tips:
Read all instructions on CHD bottle prior to use.
Remove all jewelry and body piercings.
Wash your hair using your normal shampoo and wash your body as you normally do.
Completely rinse the shampoo from your hair and soap from your body BEFORE using the CHD solution. Step away from the water.
DO NOT use the soap near your eyes, ears, or mouth or vagina. When you scrub the groin area (inside thigh up to underwear line) use a separate clean washcloth. Discard the washcloth used on the groin area.
Wet a clean washcloth and apply CHD solution to the wet washcloth. Use half of the CHD for the first shower and half for the second shower.
Wash your entire body from the neck down using the wet, soapy washcloth. Leave the solution on the skin for 3 minutes. Gently scrub the general areas where the surgical incisions(s) will be located for 3 minutes.
Turn the water off in the shower or move away from the water spray. AVOID rinsing off the soap solution at this time.
Once you have completed your surgical site washing for 3 minutes, turn the water on and rinse the soap solution off your body completely. DO NOT wash with regular soap after you have used the CHD solution.
After Each Shower:
Allow the future surgical area to air dry. Pat yourself dry with a clean towel everywhere else. Dress in fresh clean sleepwear/clothes. Sleep in clean sheets the night before your surgery.
DO NOT apply any lotions, moisturizers or powders.
DO NOT apply hair products (i.e. gels, hair spray).
Important!
If you experience any signs of allergy such as rash, breathing difficulties, palpitations, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, or if you feel unwell in any way, stop use and seek medical advice immediately. In case of severe reaction visit your ER, family doctor, or 911.
All posts are intended strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough in-person consultation with a medical professional. If you have questions about your personal medical situation, please call your healthcare provider.
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