Procedures and experiences with preoperative skin preparation in Sweden

The current situation with preoperative skin preparation in Sweden is described. Patients are given two preoperative washes with chlorhexidine scrub, and are sent to theatre on a clean bed, so no extra linen is required. Wound infection rates are acceptably low, and use of chlorhexidine has also assisted in reduction of infection associated with central venous catheters. Use of chlorhexidine scrub is recommended to help healing of infected wounds.