Incise Drapes
Do not use non-iodophor-impregnated incise drapes routinely for surgery as they may increase the risk of surgical site infection.
If an incise drape is required, use an iodophor-impregnated drape unless the patient has an iodine allergy.
Use of Sterile Gowns
The operating team should wear sterile gowns in the operating theatre during the operation.
Gloves
Consider wearing two pairs of sterile gloves when there is a high risk of glove perforation and the consequences of contamination may be serious.
Antiseptic Skin Preparation
Prepare the skin at the surgical site immediately before incision using an antiseptic (aqueous or alcohol-based) preparation: povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine are most suitable.
If diathermy is to be used, ensure that antiseptic skin preparations are dried by evaporation and pooling of alcohol-based preparations is avoided.
Diathermy
Do not use diathermy for surgical incision to reduce the risk of surgical site infection.