PRE-SURGERY SHOWERING INSTRUCTIONS

REDUCE POST-OPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS:

You can play an important role in your own health by bathing with a special soap prior to surgery. Skin is not sterile so using a special soap will help reduce the number of germs present which can significantly decrease the risk of post-operative wound infections.

USE HIBICLENS SOAP: CHLORHEXIDINE

Available at:

  • Walmart
  • Target
  • CVS
  • RiteAid
  • Walgreens
  • Harris Teeter

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

  • If you are allergic to this topical antiseptic, do not use it. Contact our office immediately.
  • This soap comes in a liquid form in 4 oz. and 8 oz. sizes.  The 4 oz. size is acceptable to purchase for this purpose. 
  • Please be aware that the soap may leave a pink residue on washcloths and in the shower or tub.
  • If you are a cervical surgery patient and have a beard, you must be clean-shaven for several days prior to surgery, including your surgery day.

QUESTIONS:

If you have any questions, please call the office. Bathing with Hibiclens is an important part of your pre-surgical preparation. Call 703.560.1146 to speak with our nurse.

SHOWER INSTRUCTIONS:

Use Hibiclens 3 times before your surgery:

  • 2 nights before your surgery
  • 1 night before your surgery
  • Morning of your surgery

IN-SHOWER:

  • With each shower or bath, wash your hair as usual with your normal shampoo first. Rinse your hair and body thoroughly after you shampoo your hair to remove the residue.
  • Apply the Hibiclens soap to your entire body being careful to avoid EYES, EARS, MOUTH, AND GENITALIA.
  • Thoroughly wash your skin, paying careful attention to the area where your surgery will be performed. The soap will not lather or create bubbles.
  • Do not wash your skin too hard.  This soap DOES NOT create a lather. 
  • Wash your body gently for approximately 5 minutes and do not wash with your regular soap again.
    • Do not shave any areas covered in hair other than beards. Note: *Back surgery patients do not need to shave. 

POST SHOWER:

  • Rinse and pat yourself dry with a clean soft towel.
  • Use a clean towel after each shower and wear clean clothing.

Enjoy the simple things

Don't let pain stand in your way.