What is one requirement before surgery that patients may need to follow?

Prior to surgery, one critical requirement that patients may be advised to follow is washing with antibiotic soap. This practice is important as it helps to decrease the presence of bacteria on the skin, thereby reducing the risk of surgical site infections. Preparing the skin in this way minimizes the potential for pathogens to enter the body during the surgical procedure.

The use of antibiotic soap is often part of a broader preoperative protocol aimed at enhancing patient safety and improving surgical outcomes. By effectively cleaning the skin and removing harmful bacteria, healthcare providers can help ensure that the surgical environment is as sterile as possible.

In contrast, other options do not hold the same level of significance or are not typically required before surgery. For example, while it's often advisable to avoid bringing valuables, this is generally a matter of personal preference rather than a medical requirement. Starting a new medication regimen should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially as it might interact with anesthesia or other medications used in surgery. Additionally, while having a family member present may provide emotional support, it is not a formal requirement for surgery and does not directly impact the surgical process itself.