Module 4: Surgical Site Infections

Question 1

What pre-operative advice regarding washing should be given to patients?

Answer 1

1. Shower or bath with soap the day before/day of surgery.
2. Mupirocin and chlorhexidine if staph-aureus infection is likely.

Question 2

Should hair removal be done routinely pre op?
If done, how should it be carried out?

Answer 2

Should NOT be routine.
If needed, use disposable headed electric clippers ON THE DAY.

Question 3

Should bowel prep be routinely carried out pre-op?

Answer 3

No, (not to reduce SSI incidence).

Question 4

For what classes of surgery should prophylactic antibiotics be given?

Answer 4

clean / clean-contaminated / contaminated.

Question 5

When should prophylactic antibiotics be given?

Answer 5

At induction of anasthesia.
If dirty or infected wound.

Question 6

What should be used as skin prep?

Answer 6

1 - 70% alcohol, 0.5% chlorhexidine (prevase).

2- 70% alcohol, 2% chlorhexidine (ChloraPrep)

Risk chlorhexidine causes burns to prem babies

Hibiscrub (4% aqueous chlorhex) if next to mucous membrane

10% Iodine alcoholic solution if chlorhex CI.

Question 7

Does wound irrigation reduce SSI?

Answer 7

No.

Question 8

Does sutures or staples lead to reduced wound dehiscence after LSCS?

Answer 8

Sutures reduce risk of infection and dehiscence.

Question 9

What should be used to clean wounds post op?

Answer 9

Sterile water for 48 hours
Then tap water.