What happens if you don't shower the night before surgery?

Why Pre-Surgery showers matter

Skipping your pre-surgery shower might not seem like a big deal, but it is actually a crucial step in keeping you safe. Everyone has natural bacteria and germs living on their skin. While these microbes are normally harmless, they can cause serious infections if they enter your body through an incision during an operation.

To drastically lower this risk, medical teams usually ask patients to complete a specific routine using a special antiseptic cleanser called CHG (chlorhexidine gluconate) soap. Typically, you will be instructed to take two separate showers—one the night before your procedure and another on the morning of surgery. Your surgical team or doctor's office will provide the soap along with precise instructions on how to use it properly.

Following these steps ensures your skin is as clean and germ-free as possible before you head to the hospital, giving you the best possible start to a smooth and healthy recovery.