Sterile Scrubbing

Surgery · OT · 10–20 min

Standardized hand and forearm decontamination before surgery.

Indications

  • Any sterile procedure or surgery

Equipment

  • Chlorhexidine or povidone iodine surgical scrub
  • Nail brush (first scrub of day)
  • Sterile towel

Positioning

  • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • Explain risks & complications
  • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • Hand hygiene
  • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • Aseptic technique
  • Sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/6)

Tap to complete

1. Prep

Remove jewellery; wear cap, mask, eye protection.

2. Wet hands to elbows

3. Nail clean

4. Scrub

5. Rinse

6. Dry

Immediate complications

  • Contamination if lowered

Delayed complications

  • Dermatitis

Prevention

  • Correct technique

Post-procedure observation

  • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • Site inspection
  • Symptom review

Documentation

  • Procedure note
  • Consent
  • Findings

Patient instructions

  • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds