ANSWERS

1. What is meant by "scrubbing up"?
   The systematic scrubbing of the hands, arms and elbows performed by each member of the surgical team prior to each operation.
2. What is the aim of the scrubbing up routine?
   To destroy as many micro-organisms as possible from the surface of the arms and hands since it is not possible to sterilise the skin.
3. List 3 agents commonly used for scrubbing up.
   • Chlorhexidine.
   • Povidone-iodine.
   • Triclosan.
4. List 8 properties possessed by an ideal surgical scrub solution.
   • Effective against a wide range of micro-organisms.
   • Long residual effect.
   • Active and effective in the presence of organic matter.
   • Quick acting.
   • Quick to apply.
   • Non-irritant.
   • Economical.
   • Suitable for veterinary use.
5. How long should the scrubbing procedure take?
   Between 5 and 10 minutes.
6. Name the 2 different types of gown.
   • Side-tying.
   • Back-tying.
7. Why are surgical gowns folded inside outermost?
   This prevents the handling of the outside of the gown with ungloved hands.
8. Name the 3 methods of putting on surgical gloves.
   • Closed gloving.
   • Open gloving.
   • Plunge method.
9. Of the 3 methods listed in your answer to Q7, which is the least desirable and why?
   The plunge method (the sterile glove is held open by a scrubbed assistant and the hand inserted); there is a risk of contaminating both personnel involved with this technique which is why it is not commonly used.
10. Of the 3 methods listed in your answer to Q7, which is the least likely to cause contamination of the gloves and why?
    The closed gloving method, because your hand stays within the gown and so the risk of your hand accidentally coming
    into contact with the outside of the glove is significantly reduced.
11. Why are starch-free gloves considered better than the powdered variety?
    It has been shown that powder may interfere with wound healing.
12. Once gowned and gloved, how can the wearer reduce the risk of contamination?
    • Avoid unnecessary movement.
    • Keep the hands up, clasped together against the front of the chest until surgery commences.
    • Do not turn with the back to any sterile areas (especially when wearing a back-tying gown).
13. What might be considered when there is an increased risk of contamination such as for a procedure that involves entry into the intestinal tract?
    Double gloving.
14. What is meant by a nosocomial infection?
    A hospital-acquired infection (especially Escheria coli and Staphylococcus).