The video below outlines the Surgical Site Infection Improvement Programme's guidelines for clipping not shaving – the third in a series of interventions.
Studies have shown that preoperative hair removal by any means is associated with increased SSI rates (CDC 1999). Hair should not be removed unless it interferes with the operation. If removal is necessary, remove by clipping and not by shaving (Nichols 2001). Clipping rather than shaving will improve the safety and quality of care that patients receive.
