Can i use hibiclens before surgery at home?

Why is Hibiclens used before surgery?

Hibiclens is a chlorhexidine-based antiseptic solution commonly used to reduce the risk of surgical site infections (SSI) in hospitals. It works by killing a wide range of bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens on the skin.

How does Hibiclens compare with other pre-operative skin preparations?

Hibiclens has been shown to be more effective than other antiseptic solutions, such as povidone-iodine, in reducing SSI rates [1]. However, it's essential to note that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using Hibiclens only as part of a comprehensive surgical site infection prevention strategy.

Can I use Hibiclens before surgery at home?

While Hibiclens is available by prescription or over-the-counter for pre-operative skin preparation, its use at home before surgery is not recommended. The product label instructs users to apply the solution under the supervision of a healthcare professional in a clinical setting [2]. Additionally, using Hibiclens without proper training and medical guidance may lead to incorrect application or adverse effects.

What should I do instead?

Talk to your healthcare provider or a pharmacist about how to properly prepare your skin for surgery. They may recommend alternative pre-operative skin preparations or provide guidance on how to apply Hibiclens in a hospital setting.

References:

[1] CDC. "Guidelines for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infection, 2017." https://www.cdc.gov/hai/pdfs/surgical-sites/pdf-guidelines.pdf

[2] Dey, D. P. "Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 2% in Water (Hibiclens)." DrugPatentWatch.com