Which of the following steps is included in the skin prep for a bunionectomy?

• A. Applying a warm compress
• B. Starting at the incision site and moving up
• C. Using a sterile bandage
• D. Covering the affected toe only

Answer: (B)

The correct answer involves starting at the incision site and moving up during the skin preparation for a bunionectomy. This technique is critical as it helps to minimize the risk of contaminating the surgical site. By beginning at the incision site, it ensures that any microorganisms present are pushed away from the site as you move to clean the surrounding skin. This method creates a gradient of cleanliness that is essential in maintaining a sterile environment, which is paramount in preventing infections during surgery.

In surgical practice, it's vital to follow proper techniques for skin prep as these can significantly influence patient outcomes. Effective skin preparation is an essential step before any surgical procedure, as it helps create the cleanest possible environment for an operation, ensuring that the healing process can begin as safely as possible.