Preoperative skin preparation: a historical perspective

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2009 Oct;70(10):579-82. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2009.70.10.44625.

Abstract

The incidence of health-care-associated infections has reduced since skin antisepsis was introduced in the 19th century. Despite this, health-care-associated infections, including post-surgical sepsis, continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the evidence for the use of preoperative skin preparations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / therapeutic use*
  • Antisepsis / methods
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Preoperative Care / methods*
  • Sepsis / prevention & control*
  • Surgical Wound Infection / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local