The preliminary preparations are of the _greatest importance_. The
usual standing orders should be followed only when no directions have
been given by the surgeon. When express directions for preparation are
given by the surgeon, the usual standing orders must be disregarded.
Caution in the use of cathartics can not be too strongly emphasized,
for even a simple laxative at such a time may cost the patient’s life.
The usual standing orders are: For the previous day, liquid diet only.
Give a cathartic, a bath, and a hair-wash during the afternoon, and
flush the bowels thoroughly a few hours later. Surgical preparations
should be completed before retiring time for the night.
Have room and all preparations ready before disturbing patient. Keep
patient covered as much as possible. Protect table with a Kelly pad or
a good substitute for same. Have at hand a drainage-pan and a bucket.
Shave field of operation.
Scrub with tincture of green soap and rinse with sterile water; then
cleanse with ether, followed by alcohol, 70 per cent.
Put on dry sterile dressing (a towel), apply a suitable bandage and
fasten securely.
Douches are given only by direction of the surgeon—sterile water
preferred.
The final preparation is given in the operating-room a few minutes
before the operation is begun, consisting of a heavy coating of
tincture of iodin, applied by the surgeon in attendance.
=Morning of Operation.=—Have a specimen of urine ready for analysis.
No food six hours before operation. If patient cannot urinate a few
minutes before going to the operating-room, catheterize, with doctor’s
permission. Remove false teeth, jewelry, and protect patient from the
cold.