Chlorhexidine Gluconate Wipes Before Surgery

CHG wipes are commonly included in preoperative skin preparation routines for certain surgical procedures. Understanding when they are used, how they should be applied, and the benefits they provide can help patients and healthcare professionals better prepare for surgery.

What are CHG wipes for surgery?

CHG wipes are antiseptic wipes that contain the chemical Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG). Before certain procedures, healthcare providers may recommend CHG bathing or cleansing to reduce the number of microorganisms present on the skin before surgery. Unlike a regular cleansing wipe, CHG products are designed to provide antimicrobial activity that continues after application when used according to product instructions.¹ By lowering the amount of bacteria on the skin, CHG preparation supports infection prevention strategies used before surgical procedures.²

How to Use CHG Wipes?

Using CHG wipes correctly is important to ensure maximum effectiveness. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before opening the package of CHG wipes.
2. Remove the wipe from the package and unfold it.
3. Starting at the centre of the area to be cleaned, wipe outward in a circular motion, using gentle pressure. Be sure to cover the entire area.
4. Repeat the process with a new wipe until the entire area is covered.
5. Allow the skin to air dry for at least 30 seconds before dressing.

It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider on when and how to use CHG wipes. They may give you with specific instructions based on your individual needs and the type of surgery you are having.

Benefits of CHG Wipes

CHG wipes offer several benefits for patients undergoing surgery. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Reducing the risk of surgical site infections: CHG wipes help reduce the number of microorganisms present on the skin, which may support efforts to reduce the risk of surgical site infections when used as part of an appropriate preoperative skin preparation protocol.¹
2. Wide range of effectiveness: CHG is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
3. Easy to use: CHG wipes are easy to use and can be applied directly to the skin before surgery.
4. Skin-friendly options: Some CHG wipes, like the SAGE CHG 2% Wipes, are alcohol-free and made from 100% polyester cloth to provide effective cleansing while remaining gentle on sensitive skin.
5. Safe: CHG wipes are generally well tolerated when used correctly. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have previously reacted to chlorhexidine products.²

Preparing for Surgery with CHG Wipes

Proper skin preparation is an important part of surgical infection prevention. CHG wipes provide a convenient way to reduce microorganisms on the skin before certain procedures when used according to healthcare provider instructions. By following the recommended steps and understanding how CHG products work, patients can play an important role in preparing safely for surgery.