What is the primary purpose of the surgical scrub?

The primary purpose of the surgical scrub is to eliminate microorganisms from the hands and forearms. This procedure is critical in the operating room as it significantly reduces the risk of surgical site infections, which can arise from the transfer of pathogens from the surgical staff to the surgical site. The surgical scrub involves a meticulous cleansing process that typically includes the use of antimicrobial soap and a specific technique that ensures all areas of the hands and forearms are thoroughly cleaned.

While the surgical scrub may provide some degree of hydration to the skin due to the use of soap and the washing process, that is not its main objective. Furthermore, although preparing instruments for sterilization is an essential part of surgical practices, it falls outside the scope of what the surgical scrub entails. The idea of relaxing the surgeon is also unrelated, as the scrub is primarily a hygiene protocol aimed at maintaining a sterile field during surgery.