Scrub up

usgb
phrasal verb

To wash one's hands and arms thoroughly, especially before performing a medical operation.

The surgeon must scrub up before surgery.
Visual representation of "scrub up" - To wash one's hands and arms thoroughly, especially before performing a medical operation

Often appears as...

  • scrub up before
  • scrub up thoroughly

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "scrub up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Medical Ritual

Scrubbing up is a ritual in medical settings for hygiene before touching patients.

Illustration for Medical Ritual
Watch experienced nurses to learn how to scrub up properly.
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Not Just Hands

In medical contexts, scrubbing up includes arms, often up to the elbows, not just the hands.

Illustration for Not Just Hands
Make sure you scrub up to your elbows before entering the operating room.
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Specific Products

Special soaps or antiseptic solutions are used to scrub up in medical environments.

Illustration for Specific Products
Use the provided surgical soap to scrub up.
Visual representation of the word "Scrub up"

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