Pre-Operative Bathing Instructions with CHG Soap (Total Joint Replacement Surgery)

Your surgery is scheduled soon! To reduce your risk of infection, it is very important to clean your skin properly before your procedure using CHG (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) liquid soap. Follow the steps below carefully.

WHEN TO USE CHG SOAP:
• Night before surgery
• Morning of surgery

You will cleanse with CHG twice—once the night before and again the morning of surgery.

SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED:
• CHG liquid soap (4% solution such as Hibiclens®)
• Clean washcloth
• Clean towel
• Freshly laundered clothing and bed linens

IMPORTANT DO’S AND DON’TS:
DO:
✓ Wash your hands before starting.
✓ Use CHG from the neck down. Avoid your face, hair, and genital area.
✓ Rinse thoroughly after applying the soap.
✓ Use clean towels and clothing after each wash.
✓ Sleep on clean sheets the night before surgery.

DO NOT:
✗ Use CHG on your face, eyes, ears, mouth, genital area, or open wounds.
✗ Use lotion, powder, or deodorant after washing with CHG.
✗ Shave the surgical site. Avoid shaving 7 days prior to surgery

HOW TO USE CHG SOAP:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Shower or bathe normally first, using your regular soap and shampoo.
2. Rinse completely to remove all soap and shampoo.
3. Turn off the water or step away from the water spray.
4. Pour a small amount of CHG onto a clean washcloth or directly into your hands.
5. Gently scrub your entire body from neck to toes, paying special attention to:
– Underarms
– Groin area (avoid genitals)
– Abdomen
– Around the surgical site (do not scrub hard)
– Front and back of legs
6. Allow CHG to sit on your skin for 3 minutes before rinsing off completely.
7. Pat dry with a clean towel.
8. Dress in clean pajamas or clothes.
9. Sleep in a clean bed with fresh sheets.

MORNING OF SURGERY:
• Repeat the CHG wash as above.
• Wear clean clothes to the hospital.
• Do not apply any lotions, deodorants, or powders.

QUESTIONS?
If you have any skin sensitivity, rash, or irritation after using CHG, or if you are unsure about the instructions, please contact:

Orthopedic & Sports Institute of the Fox Valley
Phone: 920.560.1000

Thank you for helping to keep your surgery safe and infection-free!