Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What is the generally recommended duration for a surgical hand scrub with common antiseptic cleansers?

1. 1-3 minutes

2. 3-5 minutes

3. 5-7 minutes

4. 7-10 minutes

The correct answer is: 5-7 minutes

The generally recommended duration for a surgical hand scrub with common antiseptic cleansers is typically around 5-7 minutes. This duration ensures that the surgical scrub is effective in reducing the microbial count on the hands and forearms before a surgical procedure. During this time, the antiseptic solution penetrates the skin layers and provides adequate antimicrobial action, which is crucial for minimizing the risk of surgical site infections. The 5-7 minute duration allows for thorough scrubbing of all surfaces, including under the nails and between the fingers, which are often overlooked but can harbor bacteria if not properly cleaned. It's also important to note that shorter scrub times, such as 1-3 minutes, may not provide sufficient disinfection, while longer times, like 7-10 minutes, are generally unnecessary and can lead to skin irritation or damage due to overexposure to antiseptics. Therefore, the 5-7 minute guideline strikes a balance between effectiveness and skin safety.