A surgical soak is a therapeutic nursing procedure in which a body part or an open wound is submerged or directly immersed in a warm, sterile solution using strict aseptic technique. It is essentially a localised bath, commonly applied to extremities such as the arm, hand, foot, or leg.

When an open wound is present, moist heat is delivered through immersion in a sterile warm solution. This method enhances local circulation, softens tissues, aids wound cleansing, and promotes healing. Surgical soaks are frequently used in the management of infected wounds, ulcers, post-operative sites, and chronic conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers.

Table of Contents

Surgical Soak

Definition

Surgical soak is defined as the immersion of a wound or body part in a sterile, warm therapeutic solution for a prescribed period to achieve local healing, cleansing, and pain relief.

Purpose of Surgical Soak

The objectives of performing a surgical soak include:

To promote wound healing by increasing local blood circulation
To relieve pain and discomfort through moist heat
To reduce local congestion and soften crust formation
To decrease oedema and inflammation
To facilitate removal of slough, debris, and exudate from wounds
To allow local application of medication in infected areas
To soften tissues and make manipulation of painful areas easier
To prepare wounds for surgical intervention, such as skin grafting in diabetic foot ulcers

Preliminary Assessment

Before performing a surgical soak, the nurse should:

Assess the general condition of the patient
Verify the physician’s order, including solution type, temperature, and duration
Ensure the patient is placed in a comfortable and appropriate position
Maintain privacy and dignity at all times
Confirm that all necessary equipment is available at the bedside or in the treatment area

Preparation of the Patient

Proper preparation ensures patient cooperation and safety:

Explain the procedure clearly to reduce anxiety and promote cooperation
Schedule the soak at a suitable time, preferably during routine dressing changes
Draw curtains or screens in open wards to maintain privacy
Use sensitive language—avoid referring to surgical incisions as “scars,” as this term may carry negative emotional meaning for some patients

Equipment Required

Sterile basin or bucket
Boiled and cooled water
Lotion thermometer
Normal saline
Small mackintosh
Unsterile kidney basin
Clean duster or towel
Sterile pint measure
Bowl with cotton balls
Sterile gauze pieces and cotton pads
Gloves, gown, and mask
Sponge-holding forceps

Solutions Commonly Used

The choice of solution depends on the physician’s order and wound condition:

Warm sterile water (105–110°F / 40–45°C)
Concentrated normal saline
Potassium permanganate solution (diluted until pale pink)
Dakin’s solution (sodium hypochlorite)

Duration: Usually 15–20 minutes, unless otherwise prescribed.

Procedure

Remove the outer dressing following standard surgical dressing protocol
Perform hand hygiene thoroughly
Check the temperature of the solution using a thermometer
Open the sterile basin and pour the sterile warm water into it
Add the prescribed medication using a sterile pint measure
Place the basin on a small mackintosh to protect bedding
Open the sterile dressing pack and gently remove any adherent dressing
Assess the wound for signs of infection, exudate, or tissue changes
Ask the patient to immerse the affected part into the basin, ensuring comfort and tolerance
Instruct the patient to soak the area for 15–20 minutes
Remove the basin carefully after the allotted time
Drape the wound with a sterile cover
Perform sterile dressing as ordered
Replace all articles appropriately

Documentation

Accurate documentation is essential and should include:

Time and duration of the surgical soak
Type, concentration, and temperature of the solution used
Condition of the wound (appearance, drainage, odour, slough)
Patient’s tolerance and level of cooperation
Any abnormal findings or patient complaints

Nursing Considerations and Precautions

Always maintain aseptic technique to prevent cross-infection
Ensure the solution is not too hot to avoid burns
Observe the patient for signs of discomfort, dizziness, or intolerance
Do not exceed the prescribed duration, as prolonged soaking may cause maceration
Use caution in patients with impaired sensation, such as those with diabetes or neuropathy

Surgical soak is a valuable nursing intervention that plays a significant role in wound management and infection control. When performed correctly, it enhances healing, reduces discomfort, and prepares wounds for further treatment or surgical procedures.

For nurses, mastering the technique of surgical soak requires not only technical skill but also careful assessment, patient education, strict aseptic practice, and thorough documentation. Properly executed, surgical soak contributes meaningfully to patient comfort, safety, and recovery.