1
general::
Thoroughly wash one's hands and forearms, as before performing surgery. For example, The residents had to scrub up in case they were called on to assist with the operation. [c. 1900]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): scrub up
1. Lit. to clean oneself up. • You have to scrub up before dinner. • Please go scrub up before you come to the table. 2. Fig. to clean oneself, especially one’s hands and arms, as a preparation for performing a surgical procedure. • The surgeon scrubbed up thoroughly before the operation. • When you finish scrubbing up, someone will help you on with sterile clothing.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs