Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What type of solution is found on the surgical scrub brush?

1. Antiseptic

2. Saline

3. Aqueous

4. Cationic detergent

The correct answer is: Antiseptic

The solution found on the surgical scrub brush is an antiseptic. Antiseptics are agents that inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin and are commonly used in surgical settings to reduce the risk of infection. The surgical scrub is designed to thoroughly cleanse the hands and forearms of surgical personnel before entering the operating room, ensuring that they are as free of bacteria as possible. This use of antiseptic solutions is crucial in maintaining a sterile environment during surgeries, as it greatly diminishes the chances of post-operative infections, which can complicate recovery for patients. While saline is often used in medical procedures for irrigation, it does not possess the antimicrobial properties necessary for effective skin disinfection. Aqueous refers to a water-based solution, which could mean various things depending on the context, but it does not specifically indicate an antiseptic nature. Cationic detergents may have some antibacterial properties but are not commonly the primary antiseptic used in surgical scrubs. Thus, the most appropriate and widely utilized type of solution for surgical scrub brushes is indeed an antiseptic.