While each surgery is different, there are specific steps you can take to lower your risk of getting an infection, according to the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology. These include: Communicate with your healthcare team. Be open and honest about your health and medical history, including allergies. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the procedure you’re going to have and don’t be afraid to ask for more information if you need it. Learn about medications. Ask your HCP if you’re going to need to take an antibiotic after your procedure and if so, find out why and if you really need it. That’s because overuse of antibiotics can lead to getting an infection that’s hard to treat. Practice good hygiene. The best hygiene practices include bathing carefully with prescribed antiseptic soap and handwashing, which are both very important for reducing the possibility of infection before and after the surgical procedure. Sometimes surgeons also prescribe a nasal spray to kill bacteria before surgery. In addition, don’t shave the area where your incision will be and avoid using deodorant or lotion on the day of your surgery. Eat well: Focus on fruits and vegetables in the days before surgery. Avoid processed foods and alcohol. Get a good night’s sleep before surgery: A poor night’s sleep before surgery is associated with more pain after the procedure.