Skin Prep and Surgical Site Infection Prevention

Boulder Community Health takes prevention of surgical site infections seriously. We have a standardized group of things we do that will help prevent infection.
We recommend that you download and print a skin prep instruction guide and checklist below:

Watch step-by-step instructions on how to prep your skin using Hibiclens:

What should I expect on the day of surgery before I go to the surgery room?

• Let the nurse know if you have any skin breakdown or skin issues.
• Iodine swabs will be applied twice to the inside of each of your nostrils. Let your provider know ahead of time if you are allergic to iodine.
• Clippers may be used for hair removal (not a razor).
• Your surgical site will be cleaned with a special soap that kills germs before surgery.
• If needed, antibiotics will be given in your intravenous line (IV) before your surgery begins.

What are health care providers doing to make sure the surgical site is clean?

Your health care providers will:

• Clean their hands and arms up to the elbows with an antiseptic soap just before the surgery.
• Wear hair covers, masks, gowns and gloves during surgery to keep the surgery area clean.
• Clean the skin at the surgery site with a special soap that kills germs.

What should I do after my surgery (postoperatively)?

• Keep your hands clean. This is one of the most important things you can do to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. You can wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Change your dressing as directed by your surgeon.
• It is important to continue to take your medications as prescribed.