8 - Drugs and Solutions

Abstract

This chapter discusses the uses of drugs and solutions. Drugs and solutions are required for the basic cleaning of the operating theatre, the preparation of the surgical setup, the scrub procedure of the operative team, the skin preparation of the patient, as medications used during the operation, and for cleaning of the theatre and equipment after the operation. Hospitals vary in their choice of drugs and solutions, yet basic needs must be met, both in relation to the performance and quality of the drugs involved. Each institution has a routine procedure to render the operative site surgically clean. Procedure and choice of solutions varies with the type of surgery and age of patient. It is logical to have the necessary equipment located by the side of the drug. The equipment should always be restocked in preparation for the next emergency. A care should be exercised while handling drugs for radiography at the operative field, for example, cholangiogram. One must be sure that adaptor fits securely on syringe.