SSIs Flashcards
If an SSI is in the subcutaneous tissue, what is it classed as?
Superficial incisional SSI
If an SSI is in the deep soft tissue (fascia and muscle) what is it classed as?
Deep incisional SSI
If an SSI is in the organ space, what is it classed as?
Organ/space SSI
Risk of SSI for the following:
1) Clean
2) Clean-contaminated
3) Contaminated
4) Dirty
1) <2%
2) 5-15%
3) 15-30%
4) >30%
Name the top 5 pathogens associated with SSIs in order
1- S.auerus 2-CoNS 3- Enterococcus 4- E.coli 5- P.aeroginosa
How do you reduce the incidence of SSI?
- surveillance
- propylactic antibiotics
- asepsis
- preparation of incision site
- warming
- oxygenation
- glucose control
When can antibiotic prophylaxis be given to reduce SSIs?
- clean surgery involving the placement of a prosthesis or implant
- clean-contaminated surgery
- contaminated surgery
When should antibiotic propylaxis NOT be given to reduce SSIs?
For clean, non-prosthetic uncomplicated surgery
How are the antibiotics for prophlaxis chosen? How are they given?
- Via local forumlary
- consideration given to potential adverse effects
- Given as a single dose IV on starting anaesthesia, but can be given earlier as propylaxis in which a tourniquet is used
Why does hair need to be removed prior to surgery?
- improved view and access
- perceived reduction in infection rate
How should hair be removed at a surgical site?
Clippers preferred
How should hair removal NOT be done at a surgical site? Why?
Not razors as they damage skin and cause abrasion. Consider the sweat glands.
Razors are not normally used as skin damage increases bacterial numbers
How is surgical site antisepsis performed?
- 2% chlorhexidine, 10% povidone iodine
- paint versus scrub and paint
- clean-contaminated category only
