Which skin preparation instruction is correct?

• A. Use antiseptic solution to cleanse the area from incision outward.
• B. Cleanse toward the incision.
• C. Use only soap and water.
• D. Skip skin prep.

Answer: (A)

Cleansing with an antiseptic solution from the incision outward is the best approach because it reduces the microbial load around the wound and prevents skin flora from being dragged toward the incision. Starting at the incision and moving outward minimizes the chance that contaminants are pushed into the wound during prepping. Antiseptic solutions provide antimicrobial activity beyond simple cleansing, whereas soap and water alone may remove debris but don’t offer the same level of microbial reduction. Cleaning toward the incision would risk bringing contaminants into the wound area. Skipping skin prep leaves the skin contaminated and increases the risk of surgical site infection.