Abstract: A fluid applicator 10 used to prepare a surgical site on a patient's skin is disclosed, which irrigates a surgical site and simultaneously collects excess irrigation fluids from the surgical site and returns the collected fluids to a fluid reservoir. Applicator 10 includes a disposable fluid reservoir 10 and a reusable motor assembly 50. Fluid reservoir 20 includes a sponge 48. Motor assembly 50 includes a motor 70 and a reciprocating diaphragm 80. Motor assembly 50 is connected to the open end of fluid reservoir 20 to enclose and seal a quantity of prep solution inside the fluid reservoir. Motor 70 reciprocates diaphragm 80 back and forth within fluid reservoir 20. The forward stroke of diaphragm 80 causes a positive pressure inside fluid reservoir 20, which displaces the irrigation fluid through a one way valve 30 and a spray nozzle 34 onto the surgical site. Excess irrigation fluid is absorbed by sponge 48 as applicator 10 is moved over the surgical site.