What is the primary difference between regular hand hygiene and surgical scrub?

The primary difference between regular hand hygiene and surgical scrub is that surgical scrub focuses on the mechanical removal of microorganisms. While both practices are essential for infection control, a surgical scrub is specifically designed to minimize the number of pathogens on the hands before surgical procedures. This process involves using a scrub brush or friction, along with antiseptic solutions, to not only wash away dirt and contaminants but also to effectively reduce the microbial load on the skin.

In a surgical scrub, there is a greater emphasis on achieving a sterile environment. This requires a longer duration and a more detailed technique than what is typically used in standard hand hygiene practices. Regular hand hygiene involves simpler washing techniques that may not achieve the same level of contamination reduction required in surgical settings.

In addition, maintaining skin integrity is critical in surgical scrubs; however, this is often a consideration in all forms of hand hygiene, not a differentiating factor. Therefore, the emphasis on mechanical removal of microorganisms during a surgical scrub distinguishes it from regular hand hygiene.