Skin reactions related to surgical scrub-up: Results of a Scottish survey

The prevalence of skin reactions associated with surgical scrub-up among a representative sample of theatre personnel in Scotland was 37.2 per cent. Only 5 per cent of the sample had severe symptoms as judged by the necessity to consult a dermatologist. A skin reaction following surgical scrub-up is most likely to be due to a drying effect from frequent scrubs, and moisturizing creams are effective in controlling symptoms in up to 25 per cent of those developing reactions. Individuals who have other allergic symptoms appear more likely to develop skin reactions than those with no other allergic symptoms. These individuals may benefit from regular use of hand creams or using a scrub routine which causes less trauma to their skin as a prophylactic measure.