b. Containers for surgical detergents are placed between each two sinks.
Foot-operated pedals attached to the containers provide a convenient method of
dispensing detergents without contaminating the hands. Scrub brushes (depending on
the type used) may be placed in dispensers, one between each two sinks. A clock
should be provided for timing the scrub procedure when required.
Section III. CLEANSING AGENTS IN USE
1-11.
INTRODUCTION
A number of surgical soaps are available for use in Army hospitals. Scrub
brushes are also used. A surgical scrub brush/sponge with a nail cleaner are
prepackaged, presterilized, and may be impregnated with a surgical soap. The brush is
disposable and for one time use only.
1-12.
SURGICAL SOAPS
a. Standard Agents. The surgical soaps available as a standard item are
Povidone-iodine and Hibiclens. These soaps are used in a concentrated liquid form in
soap dispensers or in brushes impregnated with these detergents.
b. Desirable Properties. These agents are preferable for doing the surgical
scrub because:
(1) They are nonirritating to most people.
(2) They leave a minimum number of microorganisms on the skin.
(3) They have a prolonged anti-bacterial effect on the skin when used
regularly. Surgical detergents leave a film on the skin which keeps the resident bacteria
to a minimum and yet they do not interfere with the skin's natural resistance to transient
bacteria (refer to paragraphs 1-1d(1) and (2)).
(4) They will lather in either hot, cold, or hard water.
(5) The amount of detergent needed for a scrub is small (about 8 ml).
Adding more water produces more lather.
1-13.
ALTERNATIVES IN THE FIELD
a. Povidone-iodine and Hibiclens are two types of surgical soaps that are
available as standard items. These soaps are in liquid form.
MD0933
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