What is the primary purpose of preoperative skin antisepsis?

The primary purpose of preoperative skin antisepsis is to reduce surgical site infections. During any surgical procedure, the introduction of microorganisms from the skin into the surgical site can lead to serious infections, which can complicate recovery and increase healthcare costs. Preoperative skin antisepsis involves cleaning the skin with antiseptic solutions to eliminate or significantly reduce the number of these microorganisms prior to incision.

Using agents such as chlorhexidine or iodine-based solutions, healthcare professionals prepare the skin to create a sterile environment for the surgery. This practice is crucial because it directly impacts the overall outcome of the surgery and the patient's recovery. By focusing on minimizing the risk of infection, this procedure aligns with evidence-based practices aimed at improving patient safety in the perioperative setting.