Section: Preoperative Skin Antisepsis
Along with nasal decolonization, skin antisepsis with preoperative chlorhexidine (CHG) is an important part of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) decolonization and an effective surgical site infection (SSI) prevention strategy. This section provides evidence for decolonization as an infection prevention strategy and dives into the instructions for use.
Presentations
Presentation: The Evidence for MRSA Decolonization
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Discuss the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to MRSA and SSI prevention for surgeries for which MRSA infection is especially harmful (cardiac, hip and knee joint replacement, and spinal fusion)
Documents:
Presentation: Use of Preoperative Chlorhexidine Antisepsis
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Review the purpose and process of preoperative CHG bathing​
- Review using CHG as part of preoperative decolonization​
- Recognize the importance of teaching patients how and when to bathe themselves with CHG​
- Explain the correct technique for patients to use when using CHG bathing
Documents:
Presentation: Decolonization Strategies
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Discuss the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to different nasal decolonization agents​
- Discuss the approaches of universal and targeted MRSA decolonization
Documents:
- Decolonization Strategies – Slides (PPTX, 4 MB)
- Decolonization Strategies – Facilitator Guide (DOCX, 3 MB)
Presentation: Decolonization Implementation
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Review the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to MRSA and SSIs for cardiac, hip and knee joint replacement, and spinal fusion surgeries
- Identify key strategies for MRSA decolonization ​
- Identify challenges and operational issues in the implementation of decolonization
- Explore effective strategies for implementing decolonization strategies
Documents:
- Decolonization Implementation – Slides (PPTX, 4 MB)
- Decolonization Implementation – Facilitator Guide (DOCX, 2.6 MB)
One-Pagers
One-Pager: The Evidence for MRSA Decolonization One-Pager (DOCX, 346 KB)
This one-page document provides a concise summary of the studies and evidence discussed in the presentation that support nasal decolonization and preoperative skin antisepsis with CHG to prevent MRSA and SSI.
One-Pager: Products Used for S. aureus Nasal Decolonization One-Pager (DOCX, 361 KB)
This one-page document provides a concise summary of available nasal decolonization products to assist staff in selection of the best agent for preoperative decolonization for their service.
One-Pager: Universal and Targeted Decolonization Strategies One-Pager (DOCX, 285 KB)
This document defines the types of decolonization strategies and what is needed to implement either approach. Mid- to high-level administrative management and leadership who are interested in implementing decolonization programs at their site may use this document to compare the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
Tools and Resources
Tools and Resources for Decolonization (Main)
Visit the Tools & Resources for Decolonization page to explore guides, protocols, staff training materials, and patient educational resources. Links to individual sections are provided below.
- Decolonization First Steps, Readiness, and Prelaunch
This section covers readiness and prelaunch. It is recommended to start here. The guides provided in this section walk you through key early decisions and the preparatory steps for launch. - Decolonization Protocols
Access sample unit and nursing protocols for bathing with CHG and conducting nasal decolonization. - Decolonization Staff Training Materials
Access training materials designed to help staff with implementation. - Decolonization Patient Educational Resources
Find resources designed to educate patients about decolonization.
