Introduction:

Hand hygiene for surgery is an essential clinical procedure whose technique has been evolving as the result of new scientific evidence. The related WHO manuals reflect the changes in this procedure; for example, the now non-binding need of using a brush. Nevertheless, it is necessary to continue analyzing the current evidence in order to recognize the new guidelines which are being established as the result of new published research.

Objective:

To carry out an updated literature review on hand hygiene for surgery.

Development:

Hand washing for surgery using a brush has long been a regular practice in Mexican hospitals, however, there are diverse studies which support the omission of brushes due to the tissue damage which these utensils can cause - including dermal abrasions which can make the staff tend to brush their hands and arms for less time in comparison to the recommended standards, resulting in incomplete antiseptic effects.

Conclusions:

Having in mind that some of the most recommended antiseptic substances are chlorhexidine and alcohol-based gels, hand hygiene for surgery without using a brush should be considered because it can reduce costs, guarantee hands decontamination, generate less dermal lesions, and contribute to the reduction of related surgical site infections.