What practice should be followed during the surgical scrub procedure?

• A. Hands should be held lower than elbows
• B. Fingernails should be cleaned under running water
• C. Scrubbing should last less than 30 seconds
• D. Surgical attire can be worn outside the OR

Answer: (B)

During the surgical scrub procedure, it is essential to ensure that fingernails are cleaned thoroughly to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens into the surgical site. Cleaning fingernails under running water is important for effectively removing debris and bacteria that may be lodged under the nails. This practice helps achieve a higher standard of asepsis by ensuring that the hands and nails are free from contaminants before performing sterile procedures.

Additionally, proper hand hygiene is critical in preventing surgical site infections. The emphasis on cleaning under running water highlights the necessity of using an effective method to maintain cleanliness throughout the entire surgical process. This step is a part of the broader scrub protocol, which typically includes using antiseptic solutions.

The other choices do not align with the established best practices for surgical scrubbing. For instance, hands should be kept above the elbows to allow water and contaminants to drain away, scrubbing should last longer than 30 seconds to ensure thorough disinfection, and surgical attire should not be worn outside the operating room to maintain a sterile environment.