Two common hand antisepsis options used before performing a sterile scrub?

• A. Germicidal lotion only; no water or alcohol.
• B. Traditional surgical hand scrub with soap and water; and an alcohol-based hand rub.
• C. Use water only with no soap.
• D. Use a topical antiseptic cream and never wash hands.

Answer: (B)

The two common ways to prepare hands before a sterile scrub are performing a traditional surgical hand scrub with soap and water, and using an alcohol-based hand rub. The soap-and-water scrub physically removes dirt and transient microbes while the antiseptic in the soap reduces microbial load during a timed scrubbing process, which is especially important when hands are visibly dirty or have been contaminated. The alcohol-based hand rub provides rapid reduction of microbes on clean skin, is quick to apply, and is convenient for reapplication between steps. Together they cover both thorough, hands-on cleaning and a fast, effective antimicrobial action for clean hands. Water-only washing lacks antimicrobial action, and relying on a topical cream without washing does not achieve adequate sterility for surgical prep.