In what context should surgical hand antisepsis be performed?

Surgical hand antisepsis should be performed specifically in preparation for surgical procedures. This practice is essential as it significantly reduces the transmission of pathogens from healthcare personnel to the surgical site, thereby minimizing the risk of surgical site infections.

During surgical procedures, the hands of the surgeon and other sterile team members come into direct contact with the patient’s tissues and sterile instruments. Therefore, thorough antisepsis - which often involves specific antiseptic agents and a detailed technique - is vital to ensure that any potential pathogens are eliminated. This differs from routine patient care or general hygiene practices, which may not require the same level of rigor in antisepsis. Additionally, performing hand antisepsis only after patient discharge does not contribute to infection prevention during the critical time of an operation. It’s the meticulous preparation before the surgical intervention that is crucial for patient safety and surgical success.