How to reduce the risk of surgical site infection

Surgical site infections are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Delivering quality care during the perioperative period is critical to preventing SSIs

Wilson, Jennie

Author Jennie Wilson is associate professor of healthcare epidemiology at Richard Wells Research Centre, University of West London.

•This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

Nursing Times 111(38):p 12-16, September 16, 2015.

Abstract

Wilson J (2015) How to prevent surgical site infection. Nursing Times; 111; 38: 12-16.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are an important cause of healthcare-associated infection and are associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Although intrinsic factors in patients - such as age, underlying illness and site of the procedure - increase the risk, the quality of care delivered during the perioperative period is critical to preventing SSI. This article explores what is known about the epidemiology and pathogenesis of SSI, and practices that are effective in reducing the risk of SSI.