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Preparing for Surgery

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Your Surgery: How to Prepare

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Watch this to know how you can prepare at home before surgery.

Video in English and Español

Preparing for Surgery: CHG Skin Cleanser (Soap, Shower)

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Before you have surgery, you may be asked to wash your skin with a soap containing a chemical called CHG (chlorhexidine gluconate). This antiseptic eliminates many of the germs on your skin. It keeps your surgical site clean and free from infection. This video shows basic CHG showering directions. To get the full benefit, follow the directions for the specific soap you are asked to use.

Video in English and Español

Pre-Surgery Checklist

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You are scheduled to have surgery. The health care staff will try to make your stay comfortable. Use the guidelines below to remind yourself what to do before surgery.

Text in English and Español

CHG (Chlorhexidine Gluconate) Body Wash Before Surgery

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Before your scheduled surgery, your surgical team may advise you to wash your body using a CHG skin cleanser. This helps reduce your risk for a surgical site infection.

Text in English and Español

Related Learning

  • Infection Prevention
  • Your Surgery: At the Hospital
  • Anesthesia
  • General Anesthesia
  • Anesthesia (Conscious Sedation)
  • Anesthesia (Local)
  • Anesthesia (Regional)
  • Preventing Infections After Surgery
  • Patient Safety
  • Going Home after Surgery
  • Surgical Drain
  • Gallbladder Removal
  • Hiatal Hernia
  • Hernia Repair (Open Procedure)
  • Hernia Repair (Laparoscopic Procedure)
  • Appendicitis
  • MOVE!
  • Strive for a Healthy Weight
  • Be Physically Active
  • Shopping & Cooking
  • Healthy Eating

VA Long Beach Healthcare System
5901 E. 7th St.
Long Beach, CA 90822
562-826-8000

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