1-16.
PROCEDURE
a. Both surgical scrub methods follow an anatomical pattern of scrub. One
should think of the fingers, hands, and arms as having four sides or surfaces. If
properly executed, both methods are effective and each exposes all surfaces of the
hands and forearms to mechanical cleaning and chemical antisepsis.
b. In the following paragraphs, the brush-stroke method is described, using a
disposable, prepackaged, presterilized sponge/brush, impregnated with a surgical
detergent.
(1) Regulate the flow and temperature of the water.
(2) Pretear package containing brush (see Figure 1-4); lay the brush on
the back of the scrub sink.
Figure 1-4. Pretear package containing brush after regulating flow and temperature of
water.
(3) Wet hands and arms (see Figure 1-5) for an initial prescrub wash. Use
several drops of surgical detergent, work up a heavy lather, then wash the hands and
arms to a point about two inches above the elbow.
(4) Rinse hands and arms thoroughly, allowing the water to run from the
hands to the elbows (see Figure 1-6). Do not retrace or shake the hands and arms; let
the water drip from them.
(5) Remove the sterile brush and file, moisten brush and work up a lather.
Soap fingertips and clean the spaces under the fingernails of both hands under running
water (see Figure 1-7); discard file.
MD0933
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