Preoperative Skin Antisepsis in Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): Reducing the Risk of Surgical Site Infections

Preoperative skin antisepsis aims to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) by removing transient and resident microorganisms from the surgical site. This process includes preoperative decolonization, bathing, and hair management to minimize bacterial contamination. Effective skin antiseptics should provide rapid and persistent microbial reduction while minimizing skin irritation.

Surgical site preparation is essential to lowering the microbial load and preventing the rebound of bacteria at the incision site. Proper timing and adherence to antiseptic application guidelines enhance its effectiveness. Decolonization, particularly targeting Staphylococcus aureus, is a critical component of preventing SSIs and may require a structured, interdisciplinary approach.

Patients are advised to bathe before surgery with soap or an antiseptic to reduce skin microbial flora, with benefits outweighing potential risks like irritation. Hair removal should be avoided unless necessary to prevent trauma and lower infection risks.

Selecting the appropriate antiseptic depends on anatomical location, with alcohol-based antiseptics often preferred due to their broad-spectrum activity. Combining alcohol with chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine enhances persistence and effectiveness. A multidisciplinary team should evaluate antiseptic options based on patient needs, clinical guidelines, and manufacturer recommendations.

AORN. (2024, March 15). Guidelines: Key takeaways for patient skin antisepsis. Periop Today. https://www.aorn.org/about-aorn/aorn-newsroom/periop-today-newsletter/periop-today-newsletter/guidelines-key-takeaways-for-patient-skin-antisepsis?utm_campaign=periop_today&utm_medium=promotional&utm_source=email&utm_content=guidelines_mpl_241211