Pre-op Chlorhexidine Bath Wipes

[Jesfinley]

We are moving toward the implementation of Pre-op Chlorhexidine bath wipes for total joint patients. The current proposal by management is to have the RN perform this 7-wipe bath for the patient. My question is are you aware of other facilities using this wipe and if so, does the patient perform the bath or the RN?

I personally feel that if the patient is alert and oriented and of able body, they can perform the bath themselves following appropriate instruction. I think insisting the nurse perform the bath takes control away from the patient when they are already anxious and feeling loss of control in the pre-operative setting.

I welcome your thoughts.

Thanks!

[suckulator]

Our hospital does not use the wipes but has ortho/neuro patients do chlorhexidine showers pre-op. at home or in the hospital if they are inpatient. I agree, if they are well enough for a total knee they should do their own bath. That's silly for RN to take the time to do that and you are right that it could make pt. more uncomfortable.

[Sun0408, ASN, RN]

We use the wipes on all our pts as a way to decrease infection. With that said, if the pt is AAOx3 they should be able to do it themselves. If the RN must do the bath, it shouldn't be an issue because the wipes should not be used on the peri-anal area. They are used for the neck down excluding the face and peri-area.