Nowadays, surgical site infections, or SSIs, are still among the most common postoperative complications, as they result in prolonged wound healing. Hence, these health-related infections are a significant burden to the healthcare system in terms of several indicators, such as patient mortality, morbidity, and additional costs. That is why it is incredibly important to address this crucial issue and immediately take the necessary measures. Having studied some cases and approaches to this problem, I would provide a potentially essential solution.
When I first encountered the problem of surgical site infections, I did not fully understand how dangerous they could be, as they continue to occur at an unacceptable frequency. Given the fact that in most cases, patients are infected with SSIs in hospitals and clinics, it is vital to continually monitor the sterility of all wards, operating rooms, as well as common areas. More than that, prevention programs, which require the integration of a range of measures before, during, and after surgery, and are aimed at decreasing this kind of infection, have been implemented. One of the methods, which I have recently learned about and have proven to be effective, is an SSI prevention bundle. It includes some procedures and accouterments, such as preoperative chlorhexidine shower, normothermia, glycemic control, prophylactic antibiotics, and a separate closing tray. Nguyen et al. suggest that this prevention bundle successfully reduces SSIs in patients, who withstood cancer surgery, thereby enhancing the quality of healthcare and decreasing healthcare expenditures.
Having read relevant literature and conducted some research, I have come up with the conclusion that surgical site infections still pose a threat to patients’ treatment and recovery. That is why it is critical to promote the implementation of SSI prevention bundles and other effective programs. Hence, taking these measures, as well as monitoring the health facilities, will reduce the risk of spreading such infections, improve patient care, and lower healthcare costs.
Reference
Nguyen, J. M. V., Sadeghi, M., Gien, L. T., Covens, A., Kupets, R., Nathens, A. B., & Vicus, D. (2019). Impact of a preventive bundle to reduce surgical site infections in gynecologic oncology. Gynecologic Oncology, 152(3), 480-485.