Pre op wash using Johnson and Johnson for infants 2 months old and under (1365)

Key points below

Using Johnson & Johnson® soap for infants 2 months old and under 

Why do I need to wash my baby before surgery? 

Carefully washing your baby with this pre-op soap helps you reduce the number of germs on your baby’s skin.  Skin with less germs means less infections after surgery.  Your child will also be washed by the hospital staff just before going into surgery.  Do not use this soap if your baby is sensitive to products with fragrance, has eczema, open wounds or dressings that can not be removed. 

How do I wash my baby with the pre-op soap?

1. Washing needs to be done on the night before surgery. 
2. All jewelry must be removed such as earrings, necklaces and bracelets.  It needs to be kept off until after the surgery.  Talk with the nurse if you are concerned about taking any jewelry off for cultural or religious reasons.  
3. Clean and trim your baby’s fingernails and toenails.  Remove any nail polish.
4. Wash your baby’s hair first with the pre-op soap.  
5. Wet your baby’s skin.
6. Lather the soap over all of your baby’s body. 
7. Rinse all of the soap off with warm water.   Dry your baby with a clean towel.
8. Do not use any baby oil or lotions. These products may attract dirt to the skin.
9. Dress your baby in clean, washed pajamas. 
10. Wash any comfort items such as a blanket or stuffed toy that may be coming along with your baby to the hospital.

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or the clinic that scheduled the surgery if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has:  

  • Cold or illness symptoms the night before or the morning of surgery.  This includes runny nose, fever, cough or rashes. 
  • Special health care needs that were not covered by this information.